Queen Idia: The Legendary Warrior Queen Headed for the Big Screen

The legend of Queen Idia, one of Nigeria’s most powerful historical icons, is about to light up cinemas in a grand retelling directed by Patience Okhuofu. Yes, the same Queen Idia who was a powerhouse in the 16th-century Benin Empire, shaping history with her wisdom, resilience, and strategic brilliance. Move over Hollywood superheroes; we’ve got a real-life warrior queen in the house!

For those who snoozed through history class, here’s a quick refresher: Queen Idia wasn’t just any queen mother. She played a pivotal role in her son, Oba Esigie’s rise to the throne, and helped secure his reign with military strategies that left their enemies shaking in their boots. Her story is one of grit, intellect, and the sheer determination that cemented her as a symbol of empowerment.

Oh, and that famous Benin Ivory Mask you’ve probably seen plastered on African culture brochures? It was commissioned by her son to honor her legacy and became the official emblem of the FESTAC ’77 festival. No big deal—just a global symbol of African culture inspired by her badassery.

Director Patience Okhuofu, who grew up enchanted by tales of the Benin Kingdom, is determined to bring Queen Idia’s story to life with the grandeur it deserves. “As a child, I was mesmerized by stories about Queen Idia—what she stood for, her strength, her intellect. These tales were passed down by elders, and they’ve stuck with me,” Okhuofu shared, recalling her inspiration for the film.

But what really pushed her into action? The mask. “It’s displayed in galleries like any other art piece, but so few know the rich story behind it. This isn’t just a mask; it’s a testament to a legacy. I knew her story deserved to be told on a global stage.”

And global it will be. Principal photography kicks off this November, with over 200 cast members diving into three months of intense filmmaking. Key scenes will be shot in Benin, including locations where Queen Idia famously crushed her enemies. Afterward, the magic moves to New York for post-production. The cast lineup is still hush-hush, but let’s hope they do justice to this larger-than-life queen.

So, history buffs and film fans alike, mark your calendars. Queen Idia is coming, and she’s bringing all the regal drama, battle strategies, and cultural pride you can handle. This isn’t just a movie—it’s a cultural moment.