After thirty three years, the original Agbara Nla became a memorable title among Nigerian audiences, the faith based classic is returning to the big screen with Agbara Nla: The Return, scheduled to open in cinemas nationwide on October 1, 2026.
The new production is co produced by Mount Zion Film Productions, Sozo Films and Circuits, popularly known as Circuits TV, an African virtual cinema platform, while Nile Entertainment is handling its theatrical distribution across Nigeria.
Originally released in 1993 during the VHS era, Agbara Nla became part of the growing culture of Nigerian faith based films, taking stories centred on family, faith, spiritual conflict and Christian values into homes across the country.
Written by Mike Bamiloye, the original film, also released in English as The Ultimate Power, established a strong connection with audiences and contributed to Mount Zion’s influence in Nigeria’s Christian film industry.
Agbara Nla: The Return now brings the story to a new generation through a contemporary cinema production directed by brothers Damilola and Joshua Bamiloye, sons of the original writer and founder of Mount Zion Film Productions.
Produced by Chris Odeh, the film features Mike Bamiloye reprising his role as Isawuru, alongside a new generation of actors including Damilola Bamiloye as Kola, Philip Olubakin as Olaboye and Aanu Kolade Abiodun as Bose.
Set against the growing influence of occult forces in the village of Muwonleru, the film explores themes of spiritual warfare, faith, prayer and the power of God while presenting the familiar story through a contemporary cinematic experience.
The transition from VHS to the cinema screen also represents a major change in how audiences will experience the story. While the original was watched through television broadcasts and shared VHS tapes, the new production is designed for audiences to experience collectively on the big screen.
Head of Theatrical Distribution at Nile Entertainment, Thelma Udeze, said the film offers an opportunity to connect audiences who remember the original with younger viewers discovering the story for the first time.
“Agbara Nla is one of those stories that already has a history with audiences,” Udeze said, noting that the journey from the VHS era to cinema creates an opportunity to connect two generations of viewers.
Following its Nigerian cinema release on October 1, 2026, Agbara Nla: The Return is also scheduled for international theatrical release in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada, with further details expected to be announced.
