The highly anticipated film adaptation of Radio Sunrise, the award-winning novel by Anietie Isong, is set to premiere on October 1.
The movie brings to life a satirical yet sobering exploration of journalism and the socio-political complexities of the Niger Delta.
Produced by Emem Isong Misodi of Royal Arts Academy and directed by Uduak Isong Oguamanam of Closer Pictures, the film features a star-studded cast that includes Bimbo Ademoye, Maurice Sam, Akin Lewis, Uche Montana, Pere Egbi, Tomi Ojo, and Adebowale “Debo” Adedayo (popularly known as Mr. Macaroni). The project also lists Kenneth Ochije, Emmanuel Ekpenyong, and Anietie Isong as executive producers.
Originally published in the UK in 2017 and later republished in Nigeria by Narrative Landscape Press, Radio Sunrise received critical acclaim. It won the McKitterick Prize in the UK and was shortlisted for the 9mobile Prize for Literature. The BBC described the novel as “a hilarious, yet sobering take on the foibles of Nigerian life.”
Set against the backdrop of the oil-rich but troubled Niger Delta, the story uses satire to delve into the commodification of journalism, the erosion of media integrity, and the broader socio-political tensions that define the region.
The filmmakers have expressed deep personal connections to the story:
“Telling this story has been deeply personal for me. As someone from the Niger Delta, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles, and the quiet resilience of people living in that region. Radio Sunrise gives voice to so many realities that are often overlooked,” said director Uduak Isong Oguamanam.
For producer Emem Isong Misodi, the film resonates with both cultural pride and a sense of responsibility:
“This film is close to my heart because it speaks to the place I come from. The Niger Delta is rich in culture and history, but it’s also been shaped by years of neglect and conflict. With Radio Sunrise, we wanted to spotlight those complexities with honesty and empathy. At the same time, it’s exciting to see the Nigerian film industry rising to tell more layered, socially conscious stories. We’re proud to be part of that evolution.”
Author Anietie Isong also reflected on the emotional significance of the adaptation:
“Seeing Radio Sunrise adapted for the screen by my sisters is incredibly moving. We all come from the Niger Delta, and this story is rooted in the land, people, and truths we grew up with. I wrote the novel to shed light on the challenges faced by journalists in a system where integrity is constantly tested, and to explore the deeper social and political tensions in our country. I’m proud that this adaptation remains true to those themes, and even prouder that it’s a project driven by family, passion, and purpose.”
With its timely subject matter and emotionally grounded storytelling, Radio Sunrise is poised to contribute to a growing wave of Nigerian films that blend cultural authenticity with social commentary.
