Gbenga Kayode Makes His Feature Film Directional Debut With Bendel Girl After Directing BBNaija Season 2 – 8

Gbenga Kayode, the longtime director of Big Brother Naija from Season 2 through Season 8, is making his feature film directorial debut with Bendel Girl. Known among BBNaija fans simply as “Kayode,” his work behind the scenes helped shape the visual identity of the reality show for years. Now, he's moving from unscripted reality TV to the world of scripted cinema.

Bendel Girl is set to premiere in Nigerian cinemas on July 18, 2025. The film follows the story of a man haunted by a mysterious woman from the past. His obsession triggers a chain of events that could either bring healing or destruction to the people closest to him. It’s a psychological drama that blends mystery with emotional intensity.

Kayode co-wrote and directed the film, which is also his first project as a feature filmmaker. The cast includes Toke Tinde, Saskay Jonah, Tolani Baj, Jibola Dabo, Tope Tedela, Timi Agbaje, Amanda Iriekpen, and Tobi Bakre.

The production team features names like Gbenga Gomes as cinematographer, Dolapo Adeniyi handling sound design, and post-production by Aina Post Pro. The film’s music is composed by Tomi Owo and Hammerboi Music. Executive producers on the project include Kassim Sule, Frodd, Niyi Lawal, and Alice Motieri, with FilmOne distributing the film.

For Kayode, this film marks a significant shift in his career. After years of directing one of Africa’s biggest reality TV shows, he’s now stepping into Nollywood’s competitive film industry. His experience in live television and real-time storytelling gives him a unique edge, and Bendel Girl offers a chance to see what he can do when he has full creative control over a fictional narrative.

With its compelling plot and a cast filled with both rising stars and familiar faces, Bendel Girl is one of the most anticipated Nollywood releases of the year. For fans of Gbenga Kayode, it's a chance to see another side of a director they’ve followed for years. For the Nollywood industry, it’s another sign that new voices and bold transitions are shaping its future.