Gbolahan Macjob’s Ireke Breaks Global Records as NIDCOM Boss Abike Dabiri-Erewa Hails Historic Achievement

The Chairman and CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has applauded Nigerian international broadcaster and producer, Gbolahan Macjob, for the record-breaking success of his epic film Ireke: Rise of the Maroons.

In a statement by NIDCOM spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Dabiri-Erewa described the achievement as a remarkable milestone for Nigeria, noting that the production has shattered international records for a Nigerian local language film.

The film, which narrates the untold story of African slave rebellion in the Caribbean, has won global praise for spotlighting African and Nigerian history on the world stage. Beyond diaspora audiences, Ireke has captivated Caribbean communities, British viewers, and international film enthusiasts.

Dabiri-Erewa lauded Macjob’s creativity and impact, emphasizing his Abeokuta roots and career growth — from a Mass Communication graduate of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic to an Emmy-nominated BBC World Service journalist. She praised his continuous contributions to Nigeria’s global image and youth development through training initiatives and donations.

Highlighting the film’s historic feats, Ireke is the first Nigerian local language movie to premiere at Cannes, the Nollywood film with the longest UK screening, and the first to hold simultaneous premieres in London, Lagos, and Abeokuta. It also became the only Nollywood film to stage a press screening before its premiere.

With major screenings lined up in Canada, Ireke continues to cement its place as one of the most internationally celebrated Nigerian films ever.