Finally, the film adaptation of <a href="https://deadline.com/2026/01/lola-shoneyinthe-secret-lives-of-baba-segis-wives-mo-abudu-1236684946/">The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives </a>has been confirmed. Over the years, Lola Shoneyin’s bestseller cemented its place at the top of African fiction for its captivating exploration of patriarchy, power, and survival. An Instagram post by Mo Abudu revealed the star-studded cast set to bring this masterpiece to life in December 2026. The announcement already has African fiction enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.

Could this be a new dawn for African fiction? Without a doubt, these stories are more than deserving of cinematic recognition. Their rich narratives span multiple, compelling genres and offer endless options for adaptation. Nollywood now has a treasure trove of scripts ready for the big screen. And in our opinion, here are some of the best places to start digging:

Ogadinma by Ukamaka Olisakwe&nbsp;

<a href="https://literaryeverything.com/2022/03/28/ogadinma-by-ukamaka-olisakwe/">Ogadinma’s </a>struggle against poverty, abuse, and forced marriage is a story of resilience. The poor girl's experience is less fictional and more of a reality in our society. Thus, the emotional depth and social commentary would make a raw, powerful drama on screen.&nbsp;

Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Set in postcolonial Nigeria, Kambili's ordeal navigating domestic oppression and captivity blends intimate family dynamics with broader societal tension. <a href="https://sumaiyyareads.wordpress.com/2015/03/03/purple-hibiscus-book-review/">Purple Hibiscus</a> will be perfect for a poignant cinematic ride. The type that sends lingering messages to entire households.&nbsp; The movie adaptation of this novel would—similar to <a href="https://africainwords.com/2014/03/25/half-of-a-yellow-sun-2013-film-review/">Half of a Yellow Sun</a>—just need the right cast to condense the complexities of the plot without diluting its depth.

Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor&nbsp;

This is a Nigerian magical tale following <a href="https://nnedi.com/books/akata-witch/">Sunny Nwazue</a> as she discovers her mystical powers. The folklore, supernatural elements, and adventurous plot draw on Nigerian mythology and culture. What an appealing choice for Nollywood's ever-evolving audience this would be!

<a href="https://thelizziesjournal.wordpress.com/2021/01/30/book-review-his-only-wife/">His Only Wife</a> is based on a modern story of love, tradition, and the complexity of arranged marriages. Rather than remaining a silent victim to the turbulence born out of desperation, Afi begins to build a life for herself. The high emotional stakes in this work of fiction would translate beautifully into a heartfelt romantic drama.

Wizard of the Crow by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o&nbsp;

Set in the fictional Free Republic of Aburĩria, it is an absurd tale of power, corruption, and revolution.&nbsp; The Kenyan author certainly gave us a masterclass in imaginative world-building. <a href="https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/392303/wizard-of-the-crow-by-ngugi-wa-thiongo/9781784873356">Wizard of the Crow </a>is indeed perfect for a bold, visually extravagant, political satire or epic comedy.&nbsp;

All these pieces of prose—and many more—prove Africa's literary brilliance while underscoring Nollywood’s growing need for thoughtful literary adaptations that honour depth, history, and culture. If you haven’t read them yet, this is your sign to start now. Join the fans who can’t wait to see these stories on screen. And make your voice count in shaping the future of African cinema.

Each telling its own unique story and falling perfectly into a distinct genre, these African novels deserve their own spots on the big screen.


Books

5 African Books We’d Love to See Adapted After Baba Segi’s Wives


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