Sports betting company Bet9ja is backing an upcoming Nollywood production titled When Love Strikes.
While Nollywood has historically worked with several corporate establishments, this partnership might be the first major public arrangement between a betting company and a mainstream Nollywood production, as the film’s official synopsis suggests that Bet9ja forms an important part of the story told.
It reads: “Ibukun Saka, a rising football star at Remo Stars Football Club with dreams of going pro abroad, is faced with a life changing decision: Pursue his passion for football and aim to impress the international scout at the upcoming Bet9ja Youth Challenge Cup by becoming MVP.
“Or, setting aside football and focusing on his studies, in hopes of winning a scholarship that could secure his family’s future. As Ibukun stands at this crossroads, the pressure is mounting—not just on the pitch, but also home.”
Shot in Lagos and Ogun State, by Inkblot Productions, the film is also supported by football club Remo Stars FC and beverage company Pepsi, and Bet9ja.
Although the film is being marketed as Nigeria’s first football-themed film, films like 2021’s The Prophetess and Onye Egwu from earlier this year have stories involving football.
Speaking about the film, Inkblot co-founder Damola Ademola said it “explores the universal appeal of football and the true meaning of ‘the beautiful game’ through the eyes of a gifted young player. This story is very close to my heart, and it was important that we celebrated football and what it means to the Nigerian audience while telling a story full of heart.”
Adeoluwa Owu, one of the two directors behind Nollywood’s billion-naira grosser, A Tribe Called Judah, is credited as director. Screenplay is by Chinaza Onuzo and Joy Bewaji, while Osas Ighodaro, Bimbo Akintola, Natse Jemide, Zubby Michael, Sunshine Rosman, and Demola Adedoyin grace the screen.
“We are so pleased with the work done by Degzy [Adeoluwa Owu’s nickname] and the entire cast and crew, and we are confident that this film will resonate deeply with audiences of all ages, everywhere.” Ademola said.
