When Jade Osiberu set out to create “Christmas in Lagos,” she wasn’t just aiming to make yet another holiday film—she was weaving together a heartfelt tribute to the most magical time of the year in a city she loves dearly.
“I have a massive love affair with Lagos, which you can see from my first project, “Gidi Up,” and later “Isoken,” the filmmaker who doubles as the writer and director of the project reflects. “I have also always wanted to make a Christmas film set in Lagos, but I knew I needed the resources. Having experienced Detty December firsthand, I believed it had to be done right—or not at all.”
Her latest film transports viewers from bustling concerts to heartfelt family gatherings, highlighting Lagos as a city brimming with contrasts—chaotic yet tender, stunning yet grounded. Set against the magnetic allure of Detty December, the movie explores joy, love, grief, and all the nuances of the Christmas season. Led by Teniola Aladese, the ensemble cast includes Rayxia Ojo, Shalom C. Obiago, Richard Mofe Damijo, Shaffy Bello, and Wale Ojo.
Shifting genres, staying true to stories
Following the success of action-packed thrillers like “Gangs of Lagos” and “Brotherhood,” Jade admits that she was ready for a change of pace because she is more story-led than genre-led.
“I wanted a bit of a palate cleanser, something a bit more gentle. Fortunately, Amazon shared my vision and decided to support the project. This was truly a case where my dreams aligned perfectly with the right opportunity,” she states.
Lagos: A character in its own right
For Jade, authenticity was non-negotiable when it came to capturing the soul of the city she loves so much. Her Lagos isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing character.
“While we want to showcase how fun Christmas is in Nigeria, it’s also important to highlight different cultures and people’s stories in full depth. By exploring everyday people, like a delivery guy, and their dreams, we add depth and nuance to reflect the realities of life in Lagos beyond just partying.”
To achieve this, Jade ensured that every scene, and detail, including a chaotic traffic scene every Lagosian can relate to, was meticulously planned.
“We planned everything, right down to the hawkers in a traffic jam,” she recalls. “Filming in Lagos is challenging, especially when a key bridge was unexpectedly closed during production. But our team adapted, blocking off parts of the mainland to get it right. The production and costume design teams did an incredible job, creating beautiful sets that truly bring the story to life.”
But the pursuit of authenticity extended beyond the visuals. Jade was equally meticulous in assembling her cast, revealing that she searched online and during auditions for the right person for each role.
Crafting characters and stories with heart
While “Christmas in Lagos” is a feast for the senses, the emotional depth of the story sets it apart. The film explores love, grief, and healing through characters who feel deeply human.
“My personal experiences shape my storytelling,” the filmmaker shares. “When I wrote “Isoken”, I had just turned 30 and gone through a breakup. Similarly, Fiyin’s relationship with her mother reflects my own. I wanted to show an older woman navigating grief, accepting love and learning to stop hiding behind her child—something a lot of older women in Nigeria can relate to.”
Jade’s commitment to emotional honesty led to some powerful moments on screen—and off.
“I had a friend who walked out the screening, because it brought up memories of a family member lost during Christmas, and they’ve not been able to do with recover as a family. I know that grief is a big part of a lot of people’s Christmas experience. So the journey of a family healing and learning to celebrate again is a very powerful story,” she notes.
From Lagos to the world
Beyond its humorous, heartwarming narrative, “Christmas in Lagos” celebrates Nigerian culture. From the vibrant street markets and festive cuisine to the city’s unique rhythm, the film is a tribute to Lagos and its people.
“This film is for us,” Jade says with pride. “I want audiences to feel the beauty of our stories and culture. The Nigerian fashion scene is vibrant and thriving right now, and I hope it introduces viewers to our talented designers. I want this film to make people proud, especially in celebrating Christmas in a way that feels authentic and representative.”
What’s next for the filmmaker?
Jade is already working on her next project. Without giving too much away, she teases, “I have a sequel to one of my projects coming out next year, and that’s a massive exclusive!”
But for now, she hopes her latest film will become a holiday classic that Nigerians go back to each year.
