Happy Children’s Day! Today, May 27th, we celebrate Children’s Day with children all over the world! It’s a special day to recognize their innocence, joy, and the important role they play in shaping our future. Why not celebrate this year’s Children’s Day with fantastic Nigerian animations?
We want to honor their rights and well-being, and what better way to do that than by igniting their imaginations? We’ve got a list of 7 cartoons that cater to a variety of interests.
So, whether your child is a history buff or a dreamer of future worlds, there’s a captivating story waiting to be discovered. Let’s take them on exciting adventures and introduce them to inspiring heroes, all through the magic of animation.
Èwà (Beans) (2024)
Calling all short film fans! There’s a new gem on YouTube called “ÈwÀ” (pronounced “Eh-wa”). It’s a hilarious story about a young Nigerian boy named Ranti who desperately wants to be taller before the new school year starts.
Directed by Kiitan Durosinmi-Etti, this short film is sure to bring a smile to your face as Ranti navigates his biggest food enemy – beans!
Iwaju (2024)
Dive into a futuristic Lagos with “Iwájú,” a new animated series on Disney+! The story follows two best friends: Tola, a girl from Lagos’ wealthy district, and Kole, a tech whiz who’s self-taught.
Together, they explore the hidden wonders and dangers lurking in their contrasting worlds. Directed by Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, the series features the voices of Simisola Gbadamosi, Dayo Okeniyi, Femi Branch, Siji Soetan, and Weruche Opia.
Malaika: Warrior Queen (2019)
Buckle up for “Malika,” a new movie available on YouTube that takes you back to 15th century West Africa. The story centers around a powerful queen and military leader named Malika.
Through years of struggle, Malika managed to reunite the kingdom and even expand it into one of the greatest empires in West Africa. Directed by Roye Okupe, grab some popcorn and dive into this epic historical drama!
Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire (2023)
Check out this film on Disney+ and the Disney Channel on DSTV. This exciting anthology series features stories created by African directors, each with a unique perspective.
Kibi Quazi (2024)
Calling all superhero fans! “Kibi Quazi” is a new animated movie showing in cinemas. It tells the story of Oluwakibi, a curious teenager who stumbles upon a magical mask.
This incredible mask transforms him into GBOGAN, a powerful ancient Yoruba warrior. Directed by Ayodele Elegba, get ready for an exciting adventure filled with action and heart.
3024 (2024)
@danbrowntheartist 3024 – A 9 part animated series in partnership with TikTok goes live starting April 14th. Follow me for all the drama, action and laughs. Music by @Lord Sky @Dna Twins @therealmasterkraft #AfricanInnovators #danbrowntheartist
Check out “3024,” a fun and quirky animated series on TikTok. It follows Dan Brown, a newcomer trying to make it in Ekopolis, a futuristic version of Lagos, Nigeria.
The city’s full of surprises, and as Dan navigates his new life, Ekopolis shapes him too. Directed by Danbrown the Artist, the series features the voices of Dan Brown himself, Prince Soiprala, Tuonims Alabo, and Vanessa Onu.
Lady Buckit and the Motley Mopster (2020)
Get ready for an exciting adventure on Netflix. This is the story of a clever but very self-centered little girl who gets whisked away to a strange and unexpected land. There, she meets a whole cast of wacky characters who will change her life forever.
Directed by Adebisi Adetayo, this delightful movie is perfect for the whole family to enjoy, featuring the voices of Bimbo Akintola, Patrick Doyle, and many more talented actors.
The series features talented directors like Shofela Coker and actors including Raymond, Kenneth, and Hakeem Kae-Kazim. Dive in and explore the beauty and diversity of African storytelling!
