Nollywood Celebrates Allwell Ademola's Legacy at Kilanko Premiere
The Nigerian film industry came together in a poignant tribute to honor the late actress Allwell Ademola at the premiere of her directorial debut, Kilanko (The Invincible Child). The event, held on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, at Victoria Island in Lagos, saw a gathering of prominent Nollywood stars and entertainment figures, all dressed in elegant white outfits to support Ademola's final cinematic project.
Star-Studded Attendance and Emotional Moments
Among the notable attendees were Odunlade Adekola, Femi Adebayo, Saidi Balogun, Ashabi Simple, Biola Bayo, Kemity, and Muyiwa Ademola, alongside MC Oluomo, the president of the National Union of Road Transport Workers. The premiere was marked by emotional reactions during the movie screening, as celebrities reflected on Ademola's contributions to Nollywood and her untimely passing in December 2025.
The film was produced by actor Rotimi Salami, who worked closely with Ademola to bring her vision to life. Salami's presence, along with his family, added a personal touch to the event, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defined Ademola's career.
Bliss Salami Steals the Spotlight
A highlight of the evening was the appearance of Rotimi Salami's young daughter, Bliss Salami, who delivered a moving speech that resonated with the audience. In her address, she expressed gratitude to everyone who attended, saying, "We thank everyone who came, thank you so much for your love and don't forget to watch Kilanko on March 6, tell everyone you know to come and watch Kilanko."
Social media quickly buzzed with comparisons between Bliss and the late Allwell Ademola, with netizens noting striking similarities in their facial features and demeanor. Comments on platforms like Instagram praised the young girl's poise and resemblance to Ademola, with users describing it as a touching tribute to the actress's enduring influence.
Industry Support and Viral Moments
Prior to the premiere, Funke Akindele, Nigeria's box office queen, showed her support by sharing the trailer for Kilanko on her official Instagram page on February 11, 2026. Her post garnered thousands of likes and reactions, further amplifying anticipation for the film.
Videos from the event, including Bliss Salami's speech and the arrival of Rotimi Salami's family, went viral on social media, capturing the heartfelt moments and collective mourning for Ademola. The premiere also served as a platform to remember Ademola's last wish, as seen in a video she posted before her death, where she sang about witnessing the end of 2025—a wish that remained unfulfilled.
Legacy and Future Screenings
Kilanko is set to be released to the public on March 6, 2026, with hopes that it will continue Ademola's legacy in Nigerian cinema. The premiere not only celebrated her work but also underscored the tight-knit nature of the Nollywood community, as stars rallied to support a fallen colleague and her final project.
As the industry moves forward, events like this remind fans and filmmakers alike of the impact of Allwell Ademola's career and the importance of preserving her artistic contributions for future generations.
