Ireke: Rise of the Maroons Sets Records as Dabiri-Erewa Celebrates Producer Gbolahan Macjob

Ireke: Rise of the Maroons Sets Records as Dabiri-Erewa Celebrates Producer Gbolahan Macjob
Ireke: Rise of the Maroons is a Nigerian local language film
Dabiri-Erewa lauded Macjob for consistently using his platform to promote Nigeria’s global image

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has hailed the international success of Ireke: Rise of the Maroons, a Nigerian local language film that has set multiple global records.

Eko Hot Blog reports that in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa commended the film’s producer, Nigerian international broadcaster and journalist, Gbolahan Macjob, for mainstreaming African and Nigerian history on the global stage.

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She noted that Ireke, an epic account of African slave rebellions in the Caribbean, is the first of its kind in film history and has drawn widespread acclaim from diverse audiences, including the African diaspora, Caribbean communities, and white British audiences.

Describing Macjob as a “multi-talented artist,” the NiDCOM boss praised the film’s unprecedented viewing records. She also highlighted his roots in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where he studied Mass Communication at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic before pursuing an international career with the BBC World Service.

Dabiri-Erewa further lauded Macjob for consistently using his platform to promote Nigeria’s global image and support domestic talent through donations, training, and mentorship in broadcasting.

She reaffirmed NiDCOM’s commitment to supporting Nigerians in the diaspora in achieving personal success while contributing to national development.

“Macjob, an Emmy-nominated journalist, represents the blend of quality training at home and international exposure. The global reception of Ireke reflects Nigeria’s reinvigorated rise as a respected member of the world community,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

The Commission assured that it would continue partnering with exceptional Nigerians abroad to shape positive narratives about the country and equip Nigerian youths for global competitiveness.

Ireke has achieved several milestones, including being the first Nigerian local language film to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, the Nollywood movie with the largest and longest screening in the United Kingdom, and the first to hold simultaneous premieres in London, Lagos, and Abeokuta.

It also made history as the only Nollywood film to host a press screening ahead of its premiere.

The film is now scheduled for major screenings in Canada, further cementing its global appeal.

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