Nigeria’s Superhero Fantasy Animation, Iyanu, Takes Centre Stage At Lagos Comic Convention

At the 12th edition of the Lagos Comic Convention, held at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, a large number of attendees witnessed the celebration of Nigeria’s creative diversity, with Lion Forge Entertainment and Showmax showcasing the highly anticipated animated series, Iyanu, slated for release on Cartoon Network and Max in the US, and exclusively on Showmax across 44 African countries in 2025.

“Iyanu,” the animated series, was adapted from the graphic novels “Iyanu: Child of Wonder” published by Dark Horse Comics and YouNeek Studios.

At the panel session “Iyanu: Creating a Nigerian Superhero Series for the World,” several creatives behind both the series and the novels assembled to share their thoughts on “Iyanu”.

The panel included Serah Johnson (Voice Actress of Iyanu in the animated series), Godwin Akpan (Artist/Art Director, “Iyanu: Child of Wonder” and “Iyanu” series), Akinboye Olasunkanmi (Artist, “Iyanu: Child of Wonder”), Toyin Ajetunmobi (Artist, “Iyanu: Child of Wonder”), and Victor Sanchez Aghahowa (Head of Production, West Africa at MultiChoice).

They discussed how the animated series merges rich Nigerian folklore with cutting-edge animation to create a fantasy superhero that resonates not only with local audiences but also globally, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in the process.

Roye Okupe, YouNeek Studios founder and creator of the “Iyanu” universe, who serves as Executive Producer and Showrunner on the animated series, was unable to join the panel in Lagos due to his current schedule working on the project with Lion Forge Entertainment in the US.

Serah Johnson shared her thoughts on playing the role of Iyanu in the animation series, saying, “The whole experience was so mind-blowing for me. I like to do my background work and when I started the process, I wanted to know all about Iyanu.

I downloaded all the comic books and started reading up on Iyanu. It was such an amazing story and it made me fall in love with the character even more. It wasn’t just business as usual for me, it became very dear to my heart.” She added, “Iyanu is a smart, adventurous girl with divine powers. Her journey of self-discovery resonates with audiences of all ages.”

She also highlighted the immense potential of Nigeria’s growing animation industry: “Growing up, I didn’t see faces like mine or hear voices like mine in animation. I have to commend the Lion Forge team, especially the casting director, for bringing together the best of the best.

One issue I’ve always had with foreign movies or animated series that try to represent Africa or Nigeria was their accents—they never seemed to get it right. Roye was very particular about that, and it made me so excited to see someone paying such close attention to all the details to make sure the series comes out just right.”

Godwin Akpan, the Art Director of the “Iyanu” series said, “The fact that we are getting a show about African culture is a big deal. There are so many Black people in the diaspora who will love to learn more about the culture of where they come from.“

“To be working on a show that presents our culture in a fantasy light is just amazing and I believe the world is ready for it! Now, it’s time for Africa to shine. This is a beautiful moment, and it’s going to be an exciting adventure—the beginning of many more things to come,” he added.

Victor Sanchez Aghahowa, Head of Production, MultiChoice West Africa, emphasised the importance of preserving African culture through storytelling. Speaking about the upcoming Iyanu series, he said, “Preserving our culture through storytelling is vital.

“Iyanu” represents a monumental moment where our rich heritage is shared with the world. Showmax is proud to bring this story to audiences in Africa. It’s not about others telling our stories; it’s about us reclaiming our narratives.

Our culture, once shared through oral traditions, is now reaching audiences via streaming. Today, with everyone on their phones, Showmax brings this experience directly to you.”

Iyanu is set to premiere in 2025 on Cartoon Network and Max in the United States, and Showmax across 44 countries in Africa.