Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has spent more than 30 years captivating audiences on screen, but at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, she stepped into a bold new role—director. On September 6, she premiered her first film, Mother’s Love, opening an exciting new chapter in her career.
The screening took place at TIFF’s Lightbox 5, where an audience of distributors, sales agents, and industry professionals gathered to experience Omotola’s vision. For a star who has long been a symbol of Nollywood’s rise, this was her chance to tell a story in her own voice, from behind the camera.
Mother’s Love explores the quiet strength of mothers, with a focus on mother–daughter bonds, particularly those with first daughters. Beyond family ties, it also dives into themes of loss, trauma, and social divides.
The premiere drew a vibrant crowd, including NFVSB Director General Shuaibu Hussein, filmmakers Obi Emelonye, Lonzo Nzekwe, and Charles Uwagbai, as well as producer Rogers Ofime, writer Oyin Debby, and casting director Lala Akindoju. Fellow Nollywood stars like Linda Osifo, OC Ukeje, and Lilian Afegbai were also present to support her.
Reactions were glowing. UK-based filmmaker Obi Emelonye praised the work as “a debut that deserves to be studied at Harvard,” a bold endorsement for Omotola’s first outing as a filmmaker.
The film is scheduled for its Nigerian premiere in early 2026, aligning with Mother’s Day before heading to international audiences. For Omotola, it’s not just a directorial milestone but a continuation of her journey as a storyteller and cultural force.
At its core, Mother’s Love follows a young woman from a privileged background who, during her NYSC year, confronts grief and personal struggles, discovering resilience and purpose under the steady influence of her mother’s love.
The cast features Omotola herself, alongside Ifeanyi Kalu, Noray Nehita, Lilian Afegbai, Nosa Rex, and Olumide Oworu.
