Nigeria’s creative economy is set to experience a significant boost with the unveiling of the animated superhero series Iyanu at the twelfth edition of the Lagos Comic Convention. This event marks a pivotal moment for the country’s animation industry, showcasing its vibrant potential to a global audience.
Held at the Landmark Event Centre, the convention drew a large crowd eager to celebrate Nigeria’s rich creative diversity. The highly anticipated Iyanu series, a collaboration between Lion Forge Entertainment and Showmax, is slated for release on Cartoon Network and Max in the US, and exclusively on Showmax across 44 African countries in 2025.
Iyanu is adapted from the graphic novel Iyanu: Child of Wonder, published by Dark Horse Comics and YouNeek Studios. During a panel discussion titled “Iyanu: Creating a Nigerian Superhero Series for the World,” the creative minds behind the series gathered to share insights into the project. The panel featured key contributors such as Serah Johnson (voice of Iyanu), Godwin Akpan (Artist/Art director), and Victor Sanchez Aghahowa (head of production at MultiChoice), among others. They discussed how the series weaves rich Nigerian folklore with cutting-edge animation to create a fantasy superhero that resonates locally and globally.
Roye Okupe, founder of YouNeek Studios and the creator of the Iyanu universe, serves as executive producer and Showrunner but could not attend the event due to commitments in the US.
Reflecting on her role, Serah Johnson expressed her excitement: “Playing Iyanu was an amazing experience. I immersed myself in the character, reading all the comic books. Iyanu is a smart, adventurous girl with divine powers, and her journey of self-discovery resonates with audiences of all ages.”
Godwin Akpan emphasised the significance of showcasing African culture: “This show about African culture is a big deal. There are many people in the diaspora eager to learn about their roots. Presenting our culture in a fantasy light is incredibly important, and I believe the world is ready for it.”
Victor Sanchez Aghahowa highlighted the importance of storytelling in preserving culture: “Iyanu represents a monumental moment for sharing our rich heritage. It’s about reclaiming our narratives and ensuring our culture reaches audiences through modern platforms like Showmax.”
As Iyanu prepares for its global debut, it stands as a testament to Nigeria’s growing animation industry and its potential to captivate audiences worldwide. This launch not only highlights the creative talent within the country but also signifies a new era for African storytelling on the global stage.
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