May in Nigeria is usually synonymous with Workers' Day relaxation and the anticipation of Children's Day. But in 2026, the real fireworks aren't happening at parade grounds, they are happening on the big screen.
If April was a "shower" of titles, May is a full-blown monsoon. From historical epics that reclaim our heritage to gritty urban thrillers and the debut of fresh faces that are already shaking up the "steeze" of the industry, the May slate is proof that Nollywood isn't just making movies; it’s making statements.
Here is your definitive guide to the movies, the makers, and the "main characters" you need to watch this May.
SEGILOLA (THE VILLIAN) | MAY 1st | CINEMA
A gripping drama unfolds as a powerful woman’s obsession with bringing down a wealthy man begins to destabilize an entire village. As tensions escalate and loyalties are tested, a looming threat rises—leaving the fate of the community hanging in the balance
Directed by Muhydeen S. Ayinde and Seun Olaiya, Written by Funmilayo Omikunle, the film features Ibrahim Chatta, Bimbo Akintola, Odunlade Adekola, Toke Jamiu, Modupe Johnson alongside other amazing cast members.
BEHIND THE MASK | MAY 1st | YOUTUBE
Behind The Mask, launching on YouTube via House of Twitch this May, is a social drama that explores masculinity and the emotional weight of societal expectations. Presented by the Mr Ideal Nigeria platform, it highlights men’s hidden mental health struggles and challenges the “strong, silent” stereotype.
Produced by Ayotunde Fabamwo and starring Ayomide Jason James, Eninla Mercy Opeyemi, and Obadan Shammah(Mr. Ideal 2025), the film aims to spark conversations around vulnerability and emotional honesty.
EFUNROYE (THE UNICORN) | MAY 1st | CINEMA
In the heart of old Yoruba land, a strong woman starts from nothing and builds a big life in trade. Efunroye The Unicorn shows her fight through tough times with kings and foreign people coming in. She deals in goods like oil and leaves, but faces big tests from those who want to change her world. Will her smart ways help her win? This story pulls you in with questions about power and change.
Directed by Tope Adebayo Salami, Adebayo Tijani and Abiodun Olanrewaju the film features faithia Williams Balogun, Ibrahim Chatta, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Yekini, Muyiwa Ademola
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 | MAY 1st | CINEMA
Few films have defined pop culture, fashion, and ambition quite like The Devil Wears Prada. With powerhouse performances from Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, the film became more than just a workplace drama, it became a cultural reference point.
Now returning to cinemas, it offers a new generation the chance to experience its sharp dialogue, iconic characters, and unforgettable moments on the big screen.
Directed by David Frankel, Written by Aline Brosh McKenna based on the novel by Lauren Weisberger the film features Mary Louise Streep, Anne Hathaway, Kenneth Charles Branagh, Justin Theroux, Sydney Bernice Sweeney
GINGERRR | MAY 7th/8th | KAVA/NETFLIX
Directed by Yemi “Filmboy” Morafa and written by Xavier Ighorodje, this high-octane heist thriller makes its streaming debut after a successful theatrical run. The story follows four women, brought together by fate and a shared vendetta, who realize a daring robbery is their only ticket from the lives they have to the lives they want. However, as the stakes rise, their fragile alliance is pushed to the brink when hidden agendas and potential betrayals come to light.
Produced by Ope Ajayi alongside executive producers Bukunmi “KieKie” Adeaga-Ilori, Bisola Aiyeola, Bolaji Ogunmola, and Wumi Toriola, who also lead the cast. The film features a massive ensemble including Shaffy Bello, Odunlade Adekola, Adedimeji Lateef, Timini Egbuson, Blossom Chukwujekwu, and Mr Macaroni. Streaming on Kava from May 7th and Netflix from May 8th
THE SHEEP DETECTIVES | MAY 8th | CINEMA
George is a shepherd who reads detective novels to his beloved sheep every night, assuming they can't possibly understand. But when a mysterious incident disrupts life on the farm, the sheep realize they must become the detectives. As they follow the clues and investigate human suspects, they prove that even sheep can be brilliant crime-solvers.
Directed by Kyle Balda, Written by Craig Mazin, the film features Bryan Cranston, Hugh Jackman, Regina Lee Hall, Hong Chau, Molly Gordon
MORTAL KOMBAT II | MAY 8 | CINEMA
The fan favorite champions now joined by Johnny Cage himself are pitted against one another in the ultimate, no-holds barred, gory battle to defeat the dark rule of Shao Kahn that threatens the very existence of the Earthrealm and its defenders.
Mortal Kombat II Official Trailer
Directed by Simon McQuoid, Written by Jeremy Slater, Cast:Karl Urban, Jessica McNamee, Adeline Rudolph, Tati Gabrielle, Josh Lawson
HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: A LISTENING EXPERIENCE | MAY 8th | CINEMA
This isn’t just an album rollout anymore, it’s a reinvention of the concert experience. Hit Me Hard and Soft: A Listening Experience (2026) takes Billie Eilish’s already highly anticipated project and elevates it into something far bigger, a 3D concert film that captures her Manchester shows with a level of scale and immersion rarely seen in music.
And then there’s the collaboration that changes everything, co-directed by Billie Eilish and James Cameron, this isn’t just about documenting a performance, it’s about reimagining how audiences experience music on screen. She reinvented music. He reinvented movies. Together, they’ll reinvent the concert experience.
CALL OF MY LIFE | MAY 15th | CINEMA
Directed by music video director Apampa Oluwadamilola Owolabi well known as Dammy Twitch, this romantic drama explores the tantalizing possibility of finding a soulmate through a single, unexpected connection. The story poses a central, life-changing question: What if the love you’ve been waiting for is just one call away?
Call of my life Official Trailer
Produced by Blessing Uzzi and written by Uzoamaka Power Aniunoh, the film brings together a stellar ensemble cast including Zubby Michael, Uzoamaka Power Aniunoh, Andrew Yaw Bunting, Beverly Ada Mary Osu, and veteran icons Nkem Owoh and Patience Ozokwor.
THE BOY WHO GAVE | MAY 15th | CINEMA
Following the loss of their parents, an older brother is forced to step into a life of sacrifice as he takes on the responsibility of raising his younger siblings. His journey becomes a moving testament to love, resilience, and the weight of family.
Directed and Written by Allison Precious Emmanuel, the film features Tina Mba, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Odum Chukwuemeka Joseph and Allison Precious Emmanuel.
STRONG | MAY 15th | CINEMA
Arriving in cinemas on May 15th, STRONG is the powerful continuation of the 2019 award-winning hit Drawing Strength. Directed and written by the acclaimed duo Dimbo and Karachi Atiya, this emotionally charged suspense drama sees Sophie Alakija and Chris Okagbue returning to their roles as Lami and Sota Sawa.
The story follows Lami, an accomplished architect whose seemingly perfect life is shattered when her husband is accused of both infidelity and a heinous murder. As the evidence piles up and public judgment turns hostile, the film explores the resilience of the human spirit and the heavy price of standing by the ones we love.
The film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Fae Olumide, Ahide Odum, Edward Fom, and Onyinye Ezekwe, all woven into a narrative that tests the sanctity of marriage under extreme pressure. As Lami navigates a world that has already delivered its verdict, she is forced to decide if her faith in Sota is strong enough to withstand a crumbling reality. Designed to be a cinematic moment that moves and revives the audience's trust in people, STRONG promises a gripping exploration of conviction and hope against all odds.
PASSENGER |MAY 22nd | CINEMA
A few weeks into their van-life adventure, a young couple witnesses a horrific accident that leaves the driver dead. Soon they're being pursued by a demonic stalker who's impossible to outrun and follows them wherever they go.
Directed by André Øvredal, Written by Zachary Donohue and T. W. Burgess, the film features Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, Tony Doupe, Jessica Cruz, Brett Bedrosian
JAYEOLA MONJE THE ANNIVERSARY | MAY 22nd | CINEMA
Arriving in cinemas this May 15th, The Anniversary is a compelling new drama produced by the prolific Jaiye Kuti (Jayeola Monje). The film brings together an powerhouse ensemble of Nollywood veterans, featuring Jaiye Kuti alongside Pasuma.
One life, One destiny, One love, One heart beat, One people, One Union, One night, Many Dances. One anniversary that changes everything. A celebration like no other is coming. Love, legacy, and laughter take center stage.
OKANJUWA | MAY 22nd | CINEMA
Waheed and Aaliyah are bringing celebration to the big screen like you’ve never seen before in Okanjuwa! Get ready to feel the chaos, laugh hard, and celebrate loud.
Directed by Zulumoke Oyibo, Written by Fatimah Binta Gimsay the film features Kunle Remi, Tomike Adeoye, Uzor Arukwe, Omowunmi Dada, Akinyoola Ayoola
LAGOS BIG BOY | MAY 22nd | CINEMA
Unveiled earlier this year at the FilmOne Exhibitors Showcase, Lagos Big Boy is set to make its highly anticipated debut on the big screen but no much information about as of this time. Announced to be coming to cinemas nationwide from May 22nd.
STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU | MAY 22nd | CINEMA
The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu.
The Mandalorian and Grogu | Official Trailer
Directed and Written by Jon Favreau, the film features Pedro Pascal, Steve Blum, Sigourney Weaver, Jonny Coyne, Jeremy Allen White
IYALOJA | MAY 28th | CINEMA
Iyaloja isn’t just a title, it’s a position of power, legacy, and influence. And this film understands that deeply. Directed by Asurf Amuwa Oluseyi, Iyaloja takes audiences deep into the heart of Isale-Eko for a high-stakes exploration of ambition and power.
The film centers on the competitive and often treacherous quest for the prestigious title of "Iyaloja" within the market, where tradition meets fierce personal rivalry. Produced by Chris Odeh, the drama features a powerhouse cast including Lina Idoko, Ngozi Nwosu, Idowu Philips (Mama Rainbow), Wale Ojo, Kehinde Bankole, and Jide Kene Achufusi.
KOLERO (BEYOND THE LINE) | MAY 28th | CINEMA
Directed and written by Akorede Babatunde Kazeem, Kolero (Beyond The Line) is a high-stakes exploration of power, secrets, and the precarious lives of the elite. The story pulls back the curtain on a hidden world where society’s cabals operate, and where lust, betrayal, revenge, and love collide in equal measure.
Produced by Adeyemi Mike, the film follows the chaos that ensues when human boundaries are shattered, suggesting that only divine intervention can bring order to the resulting storm. The impressive ensemble cast features veterans Bimbo Akintola, Tina Mba, and Jide Kosoko, alongside Olumide Oworu and Bolanle Ninalowo.
AJOSEPO 2 | MAY 28th | CINEMA
Following the massive commercial success of the original 2024 hit, director Kayode Kasum returns with the highly anticipated sequel, Ajosepo 2. First unveiled earlier this year at the FilmOne Exhibitors Showcase, the sequel is set to raise the stakes following the intense family drama of Dapo and Tani’s wedding, which was riddled with secrets, infidelity, and cultural myths.
The film reunites a star-studded ensemble including Timini Egbuson, Mercy Aigbe, Yemi Solade, Bolaji Ogunmola, Mike Afolarin, Odunlade Adekola with new additions like Toyin Abraham and Kamo State.
With these lineup of movies, if you’re only planning to watch one movie this May… you’re doing it wrong. This lineup isn’t built for casual viewing, it’s built for discovery, conversation, and obsession. So whether you’re showing up for the drama, the culture, or the next breakout star. May is your month at the cinema or streaming platforms.