“Dear Ajayi” Makes History as First Nigerian Production in Venice Days Competition | Watch Trailer

“Dear Ajayi” Makes History as First Nigerian Production in Venice Damilola Orimogunje’s “Dear Ajayi” has been selected for the 2026 Giornate degli Autori, also known as Venice Days, at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. The selection makes it the first Nigerian production to compete in the Venice Days section. The Nigeria-Germany co-production will have its world premiere as part of the competition.

Photo: 2o9ine Films

Set in 1990s southwestern Nigeria, “Dear Ajayi” follows two sisters, Ade and Titi Ajayi, whose lives have gone in very different directions. Ade is a committed Christian and the main breadwinner in the family, while Titi is an aspiring singer who has chosen a more independent path. When their paralysed mother requires care, the sisters have no choice but to come back together.

Orimogunje wrote and directed the film. The cast includes Bimbo Akintola as Ade and Tosin Adeyemi as Titi, alongside Lanre Hassan, William Benson, Antar Laniyan, Uzoamaka Power, Michelle Dede and Chioma Omeruah, (Chigul)

Photo: 2o9ine Films

Re Olunuga composed the music, while KC Obiajulu served as cinematographer. The film was produced by 2o9ine Films, with Mayana Films, Depth and Optics Productions and Zynox Productions joining as co-production partners.

The film received support from the Hubert Bals Fund+ Europe, while Luminalia is handling its world sales

Photo: 2o9ine Films

Ahead of its Venice premiere, the first trailer gives viewers a look at the Ajayi family and the strained relationship between the two sisters.

Dear Ajayi will have its press and industry screening on September 4, with public screenings scheduled for September 10 and 12 during Venice Days.

Watch the trailer below.