La Campagne Tropicana Forest, River and Beach Resort transformed into a vibrant film production hub this week as principal photography commenced for the highly anticipated historical epic, So Long – Odigbose, a landmark movie project conceived by renowned tourism entrepreneur and cultural advocate, Otunba Dr. Chief Olawanle Akinboboye.
The commencement of production marks the realization of a vision that has been nurtured for more than two decades.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of La Campagne Tropicana in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, Nigeria, the production has attracted a distinguished gathering of filmmakers, actors, producers, technical crew, and cultural enthusiasts united by a shared commitment to authentic African storytelling.
The film, inspired by a story created by Otunba Akinboboye and written by acclaimed screenwriter Tunde Babalola, chronicles an important and often overlooked chapter of African history. The project seeks to recreate events dating back more than four centuries, exploring the experiences of Africans during the era of slavery and colonial domination.
Production officially commenced on June 15, 2026, utilizing state-of-the-art filmmaking equipment and Hollywood-standard production technology.
From elaborate costume designs and historical set recreations to advanced technical execution, the production is poised to deliver a world-class cinematic experience.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Otunba Olawanle Akinboboye, Creator and Director of So Long – Odigbose, explained that the lengthy development period was necessary to ensure historical accuracy, creative excellence, and attention to detail.
“For years, many people have asked why this project took so long to reach the screen. The answer lies in the extensive research, creativity, and commitment required to faithfully recreate a world that existed more than four hundred years ago,” he said.
According to Akinboboye, the film presents a unique perspective on the relationship between Africans and colonial powers, offering audiences a fresh and compelling interpretation of historical events that have shaped generations.
He further disclosed that the production schedule will prioritize quality and authenticity over speed, with the film expected to take between six months and one year to complete before its eventual release.
“Our objective is to create a timeless cinematic masterpiece capable of resonating with audiences across the globe. We are committed to achieving the highest standards of storytelling, production, and historical representation,” Akinboboye added.
Beyond the filmmaking activities, the atmosphere at La Campagne Tropicana reflected the resort’s signature blend of productivity and relaxation. Cast and crew members enjoyed moments of fellowship and cultural immersion, sharing meals and refreshments while preparing for the demanding production schedule ahead.
The Production Secretariat was established at Obieze 4, one of the resort’s luxury chalets, while filming activities took place across the beachfront and surrounding natural landscapes, providing a visually stunning environment for the unfolding story.
The first days of filming have already demonstrated the scale, ambition, and artistic excellence of the project, setting the stage for what is expected to become one of Africa’s most significant historical film productions.
So Long – Odigbose is an epic historical drama inspired by Otunba Olawanle Akinboboye and written by Tunde Babalola. The film explores the African experience during the era of slavery and colonial expansion, presenting a powerful narrative rooted in history, culture, resilience, and identity.
