Features

Iwájū: Meet The Faces Behind The Characters Of Disney’s First Nigerian Animated Project

BY Dora Abena Dzaka March 10, 2024 9:03 PM EDT
Photo Credit: Iwájū Movie cover

The animated series Iwájū chronicles the journey of Tola, a young girl from a wealthy island, and her best friend Kole, a self-taught tech expert, as they uncover the mysteries and perils that lie beneath the surface of their disparate worlds.

Hamid Ibrahim, Toluwalakin Olowofoyeko, and Ziki Nelson are the creators of the science-themed animation series, which is directed by Olufikayo Ziki Adeola and produced by Christina Chen. Adeola and Halima Hudson are the screenwriters, and Re Olunga is the composer.

Iwájë debuted on February 28, 2024, and is available exclusively on Disney+ in the United States.

A press release from the creators of the project stated that details regarding the release schedule and distribution method for a few areas, including Nigeria, will be revealed soon.

Let’s take a look at the confirmed Nigerian voice cast that is expected to bring the characters of Iwájū to life on screen while we wait for the release time zones for specific regions, including Nigeria.

Nigerian-American actors Dayo Okeniyi, Simisola Gbadamosi, Siji Soetan, Weruche Opia, a British-Nigerian actress, Shaffy Bello, Obi Maduegbuna, Kehinde Bankole, Chioma Omeruah, Bisola Ayeiola, and Tosin Oshinaike, as well as casting director Lala Akindoju, are the main cast members of the Disney series. 

The gripping coming-of-age tale centers on Tola, a young girl from an affluent island, and her best friend Kole as they learn about the perils and secrets that lurk in each other’s worlds.

“Crafting the story of “Iwájú” has been an artistic alchemy, combining imaginative leaps into the future with Lagos’ rich cultural tapestry. Working together with my Kugali co-founders and Walt Disney Animation Studios’ visionary artists has been an incredible experience. Every scene has the pulse of my hometown, and I can’t wait for everyone to see this special blend of futurism and tradition,” according to Adeola.