Nollywood Film ‘Her Daughters’ Mother’ Selected for Film Africa 2026 in London

Nollywood drama Her Daughters’ Mother, directed by Chinazaekpere Chukwu, has been selected for Film Africa 2026, a festival celebrating African and diaspora cinema in London.

Women in the Arts announced the selection in an Instagram post congratulating Chukwu on the international recognition of her feature directorial debut.

“@gailchukwu is whoever she says she is and even more! Having your directorial debut go global is no small feat! We are super proud of you, queen,” the organisation wrote.

The 109-minute film is scheduled to screen on October 28 at EbonyLife Place London as part of the festival, which runs from October 23 to November 1.

Written and directed by Chukwu, the drama is set in Benin City, Edo State, and examines motherhood, marriage and societal pressure on families to produce male children.

The story follows Ejiro, who is married off at the age of 16 and returns to her family home in her thirties as a widow raising two daughters. Hoping to secure a better future for her children, she enters a second marriage, but her new husband’s insistence on having a male heir creates further challenges.

Her eldest daughter, Ejaita, is also central to the story. The teenager dreams of becoming a doctor but struggles with her mother’s overprotectiveness as she seeks greater independence.

The cast includes Ejovwoke Olikuntuyi as Ejiro, alongside Osas Okonyon, Philip Asaya, Najite Dede and Adeoluwa Akintoba. The film was produced by One Child Grace Studio in association with C.A.N.O Productions, Uncut Gem Productions and Nka Pictures.

Chukwu previously won Best Director at the EbonyLife Creative Academy for A Psalm for Abigail. Her other credits include the 18-episode television series The Yard, released in 2025, and the short film Ti e Nbo, which premiered at the Africa International Film Festival in 2023.

Film Africa, presented by the Royal African Society, showcases African and diaspora cinema through screenings and related industry activities. Its 2026 edition provides a platform for films and filmmakers engaging with African experiences and stories.

EbonyLife Place London is a cultural and entertainment destination established by media entrepreneur Mo Abudu and the EbonyLife Group to promote African and Black storytelling. The venue includes the 160-seat Amani Auditorium, dedicated to African and Black cinema, and hosts screenings, industry discussions and cultural programmes.