Nollywood bold new entry “To Adaego With Love”, directed by Nwamaka Chikezie and written by Brenda Ogbukaa-Garuba. The film, produced by Tade Production House and Ziva Works, debuted at AFRIFF 2025 and has already sparked conversations about its emotional depth and historical resonance.
About the Movie
Set in 1976, the story unfolds during a fragile period of national healing after the Nigerian Civil War. At its heart is Major Balarabe Alkali, a Northern soldier tasked with reconciliation, and Adaego, a young Eastern schoolteacher rebuilding her life through music. Their love blossoms against the backdrop of cultural divides, family expectations, and the lingering scars of war. As duty and tradition close in, their romance becomes a symbol of unity in a fractured land.
Cast and Performances
The film stars Alfred “Six Foot Plus” Atungu, Chisom Agoawuike, and Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, alongside a strong supporting cast including Demi Banwo, Franka Igwe, and Bob-Manuel Udokwu. Each performance adds weight to the narrative, capturing both the tenderness of love and the harsh realities of postwar Nigeria.
Themes and Direction
Director Nwamaka Chikezie, known for My Mama Na Ashawo, brings a delicate balance of romance and historical drama. The screenplay by Brenda Ogbukaa-Garuba (Love and Life) weaves together personal and political struggles, showing how love can become a metaphor for reconciliation. Critics at AFRIFF noted that while the film occasionally shifts unevenly between romance and history, its emotional core remains strong.
Conclusion
To Adaego With Love is more than a romance; it is a cultural statement about healing, resilience, and the power of love in divided times. By blending history with human emotion, the film stands as one of Nollywood’s most significant releases of 2025.
Audiences have praised To Adaego With Love for its cinematography, evocative soundtrack, and heartfelt performances. For viewers seeking a story that is both timeless and timely, this film is a must-watch.
