Award-winning indigenous drama series ÌWÉ ÒWE YORÙBÁ (Book of Yoruba Proverbs) is gaining international acclaim for its culturally rich storytelling and cinematic excellence. Produced by SESAN JIGAN FILMS, the groundbreaking series recently clinched two major awards in Canada Best African Indigenous Film at the 2024 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) and Best Costume at the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (BINFF).

Now, in 2025, the series continues its momentum with a nomination for Best TV Series at TINFF 2025. Executive Producer and co-creator Sesan Jigan has also been officially invited to the festival as a delegate and panelist, affirming the series’ growing global impact.

A Bold Cultural Vision

ÌWÉ ÒWE YORÙBÁ is more than a drama series it’s a cultural preservation project that transforms traditional Yoruba proverbs into vivid historical dramas. Each episode is a self-contained story that unpacks the wisdom, morals, and societal values embedded in these age-old sayings.

Directed by Saheed Apanpa, a seasoned filmmaker with over 50 films to his credit in the U.S. and Nigeria, the series blends factual research with emotionally resonant storytelling. Apanpa’s direction ensures that each scene is anchored in cultural authenticity and visual richness.

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Executive Producers Jigan Ruth Oluwatosin and Jigan Oluwasesan Olayemi bring a rare synergy of creativity and professionalism to the series. Ruth, a successful entrepreneur and founder of 360 Eventee, provides the atmospheric depth through meticulous production design, while Sesan, a seasoned filmmaker and visual storyteller, ensures a high cinematic standard.

Adding a unique flair to the production is Owen Gee, the show’s Associate Producer. A celebrated comedian, actor, and skit pioneer, Owen Gee injects a fresh, engaging tone to the series’ powerful narratives without diluting their historical weight.

Shot in the Heart of Yoruba Land

The series was filmed on location in a remote village in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where the use of natural landscapes and traditional structures creates a visually compelling setting that reinforces the series’ epic tone. The production team overcame significant logistical challenges to remain true to the cultural and historical setting of each story.

More Than Entertainment

While ÌWÉ ÒWE YORÙBÁ has found success on the international festival circuit, it remains deeply rooted in its mission to educate, preserve, and promote Yoruba heritage. The series explores universal themes such as love, family, loss, identity, and resilience, making it relatable across cultures and generations.

Plans are already underway for future seasons, wider distribution, and educational outreach. SESAN JIGAN FILMS hopes to use the series as a life-learning tool in schools and community centers, both in Nigeria and abroad.

Global Recognition, Local Roots

As ÌWÉ ÒWE YORÙBÁ continues to resonate with audiences across continents, its creators remain focused on honoring the timeless wisdom of Yoruba proverbs while shaping a new narrative for African storytelling on the global stage.

With its latest TINFF 2025 nomination and growing accolades, the series has firmly established itself as a beacon of cultural pride and artistic excellence.