EXCLUSIVE: Showmax is preparing a Nigerian version of the International Emmy-winning South African telenovela The river.
Against the backdrop of the gold mining industry in Nigeria’s Osun state and starting next month, Wura tells the story of Wura-Amoo Adeleke, a perfect wife, a loving mother of two, and the ruthless Chief Executive Officer of the fictional Frontline Gold Mine. In the eyes of her family, Wura is blameless and a saint, but when it comes to running her business empire, she’s the ultimate “iron lady” who doesn’t care whose ox gets in her way to get what she wants.
wura, which Showmax calls the “first and longest-running Nigerian telenovela” with more than 200 episodes, featuring an all-star Nollywood cast including rising star Scarlet Gomez in the title role, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Carol King, Ray Adeka , Iremide Adeoye, Ego Iheanacho, Martha Ehinome and Lanre Adediwura.
It is based on The river, the similar South African telenovela for 1Magic, which ran for almost 250 episodes over five seasons and is available on Showmax.
“Wura explores the untold history of gold mining in Nigeria and is a testament to Showmax’s continued investment in authentic local stories,” said Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels for Showmax owner MultiChoice’s Nigerian arm. “Each scene is carefully crafted to thoroughly entertain and educate our viewers.”
Wura’s announcement comes as Showmax deepens its West African push after ordering five Nigerian originals last year, including The real housewives of Lagos and psychological thrillers Dieche. deadline announced Crime and Justice Lagos last month following the activities of the fictional Serious and Special Crimes unit operating in the Nigerian city.