Big Cabal Media has announced the second edition of Zikoko Life, the anthology film series that translates Zikoko’s bold, intimate storytelling to the screen. The new edition deepens its exploration of love, sex, and autonomy in contemporary Nigerian life, featuring a slate of three new films and the addition of director Kaelo Iyizoba to the creative team.
Award-Winning First Edition Sets the Stage
Launched in 2025, the first edition of Zikoko Life marked Zikoko’s first major foray into filmmaking. It adapted three of its most popular editorial franchises—Naira Life, Sex Life, and Love Life—into short films that examined the realities of Nigerian womanhood. The anthology received praise for its coherent vision, emotionally honest narratives, and successful translation of Zikoko’s signature voice from page to screen.
Building on that reception, the second edition returns with a renewed focus on the inner lives of young Nigerians. Created and executive produced by Anita E. Eboigbe for Big Cabal Media, the new edition is produced and showrun by Blessing Uzzi of BluHouse Studios, known for Freedom Way and Call of My Life. Returning directors Dika Ofoma and Uzoamaka Power reprise their roles, joined by newcomer Kaelo Iyizoba. Uzzi also serves as screenwriter for one of the films.
Exploring Identity, Desire, and Autonomy
The second edition centers characters navigating identity, desire, and autonomy under the weight of family, culture, religion, and the growing pains of youth. At its core, Zikoko Life continues to ask fundamental questions about sex, love, and autonomy. The anthology comprises three films:
Siraam – Written and directed by Uzoamaka Power, this film stars Genoveva Umeh as the titular lead. It premiered at the S16 Film Festival in November 2025, where it drew attention for its introspective storytelling and nuanced portrayal of a young woman negotiating love, sex, and selfhood. With the anthology’s release, Siraam reaches a wider audience as a key work in Power’s growing filmography.
Before We Fall Asleep – Written by Blessing Uzzi and directed by Kaelo Iyizoba, this film follows a couple whose union is thrown into turmoil when the core dynamics of their relationship shift. Starring Tobi Bakre, Onyinye Odukoro, and Rita Edochie, it examines quiet resentments, unspoken fears, and changing power balances that destabilize what once felt secure.
A Happy Ending – Written and directed by Dika Ofoma, this film is an ode to old Nollywood, reimagined. It follows a young woman who moves to a big city to start life afresh, only to be confronted with more choices than she envisioned. The cast includes Ifeoma Obinwa and Ruby Okezie.
Expanding the Anthology’s Reach
The second edition builds on the first’s success, which proved that Zikoko’s editorial voice could resonate in cinematic form. By adding a new director and tackling fresh stories, Big Cabal Media continues to invest in original Nigerian storytelling. The anthology remains committed to honest portrayals of love, sex, and autonomy, themes that have defined Zikoko’s editorial identity. With its release, the series aims to spark conversations about intimacy and independence in modern Nigeria.
