News Room Reporting by Nuel Umahi
The city of Jos is once again at the centre of global cinema as Mojisola, the latest film by award-winning Jos-born director Kenneth Gyang, has been selected to open the African Film Festival in Atlanta, USA, on 13 March 2025. The paranormal love story, inspired by urban myths and folklore, is not only making waves internationally but also reaffirming Jos’ place as a city of deep cultural and cinematic significance.
For Gyang, setting Mojisola in Jos, Plateau State, was not just a creative decision—it was a homage to a city that has shaped his storytelling. Known for its serene landscapes, rich history, and deep-rooted myths, Jos has long been a backdrop for some of Nigeria’s most compelling narratives. The city’s blend of urban energy and ancient folklore makes it the perfect setting for a story that fuses romance, the supernatural, and cultural mysticism.
Speaking about his choice, Gyang described Jos as a place where stories whisper through the hills and where myths are not just told but lived. He believes the city’s unique atmosphere adds an authentic depth to Mojisola, making it more than just a film but an experience of Jos’ enchanting and sometimes eerie allure.
I`m extremely proud of this contemporary paranormal lovestory that captures J-Town`s atmosphere and youth culture inspired by the 90s and early 2000s. We have been lucky to capture Jos in such a beautiful and timeless way.
— Kenneth Gyang (@kennethgyang) March 9, 2025
Mojisola is opening the Africa Film Festival in Atlanta… pic.twitter.com/KHATm5EgWE
Beyond its setting, Mojisola boasts a stellar cast, including Chioma Chukwuka, Tony Umez, and Tomi Ojo, who bring the eerie yet emotional story to life. The film’s genre-bending approach has already caught the attention of the international film circuit, securing selections at the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles and the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). It has also earned multiple award nominations, including Best Supporting Actress and Best Soundtrack at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), as well as Best Makeup at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Gyang, who has built a reputation for visually compelling and socially conscious storytelling, is no stranger to international acclaim. His past works, including Confusion Na Wa, The Lost Café, and Oloture, have been praised for their depth and originality. Yet, for him, Mojisola is deeply personal. Having grown up in Jos, he sees this film as an opportunity to showcase the city’s beauty and mystery to the world.
With Mojisola leading the charge at the African Film Festival in Atlanta, the spotlight is not just on Nollywood but on Jos as a centre of cinematic excellence. The city has long been home to some of Nigeria’s finest filmmakers, actors, and artists, yet its stories remain largely untapped on the global stage. Gyang hopes Mojisola will change that, bringing Jos’ myths, culture, and breathtaking scenery to an international audience.
As Mojisola prepares to open one of the most celebrated African film festivals, it serves as a reminder that great stories are not just made in Lagos or Hollywood but in the heart of Jos, where history and imagination intertwine to create something truly extraordinary.
