New film “Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend” signals entertainment boom in Adamawa

In an era where conversations about creative growth in Northern Nigeria often end in complaints, one young creative has chosen action over words. “Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend,” an independent Nollywood production from Adamawa State, is not just another film—it is a statement, a protest, and a vision for what is possible.

Directed and produced by Adamawa-born Afropop artist, songwriter, mixing engineer, actor, and media personality YolyBoy (Aaron Anthony), the film tells a relatable story centered on love, deception, fake lifestyles, and the everyday hustle.

But beyond its storyline, the movie represents something far deeper: a bold attempt to reposition Adamawa in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.

A Film Born Against the Odds
Unlike mainstream Nollywood productions backed by significant funding and infrastructure, “Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend” was created under modest conditions.

The film was shot entirely in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, by a small but determined team led by YolyBoy himself.
There were no large budgets, no elaborate production setups—just passion, resilience, and a shared belief in a bigger vision. From sourcing locations to dealing with power supply challenges and equipment limitations, the production process was a test of endurance.

Behind the scenes, what audiences may never fully see is the human effort that powered the project: long hours, physical stress from moving between locations, and moments of disagreement and misunderstanding among team members. Yet, through it all, the team pressed forward.

“Everyone stepped up,” YolyBoy reflects. “People gave what they had, even when it wasn’t enough. That’s what made this film possible.”

A Vision Bigger Than a Movie
For YolyBoy, “Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend” is more than a creative project—it is a mission.

His vision is clear: to awaken the Adamawa movie industry, inspire younger creatives, and create a platform that can attract investors and stakeholders to the region.

Having spent time in Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment capital, YolyBoy observed a stark contrast. While industries elsewhere were evolving, Adamawa’s creative space seemed stagnant.

“For over a decade, there has been little to no real progress,” he explains. “Many people had the opportunity to push things forward but were either ignorant or focused only on themselves—‘me, I, my.’”

Rather than join the cycle of complaints, he chose to act.

Inspired partly by the efforts of the current administration under Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, and the cultural spark ignited by events like Davido’s Five Alive Tour in Yola, YolyBoy saw an opportunity. He also drew parallels from how global artist Akon once contributed to building the African music industry from its early stages.

“All these made me realize—it’s time to stand up, step up, and take responsibility.”

Meet the Faces Behind the Story
The film features a dedicated cast and crew who contributed to bringing the story to life: Directed & Produced by: YolyBoy (Aaron Anthony)
Script: YolyBoy (Aaron Anthony)
Cast: Ladee Yina (Nadauyina Maxwell), Anny (Anna Anthony), and YolyBoy himself.

Cinematography: Johnmatches
Post-production (Editing & Color): YolyBoy
Music: Juvic, Makelo, and YolyBoy
Voice-over (Juliet): Gabrielle Isaac
The movie also highlights notable locations within Yola, including Tekwata Hotel and Resorts, Fasnet Restaurant and Cinema, and other surrounding areas—subtly showcasing the city’s potential as a filmmaking hub.

What sets “Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend” apart is its significance as the first Adamawa-made Nollywood movie—a milestone that could mark the beginning of a new era.

The project is positioned as a signal—a call to investors, sponsors, and industry stakeholders that there is untapped creative potential in Adamawa State.

“This is not just about a movie,” YolyBoy emphasizes. “It’s about showing that something is happening here—that there is talent, there is vision, and there is a future.”

At its core, the film carries a message not only for audiences but for creatives across the region.

YolyBoy calls for a shift in mindset—from waiting to building.

He urges creatives to take intentional steps, make sacrifices, and commit to creating a legacy that future generations can build upon.

He advocates for unity, collaboration, and the development of sustainable systems within the industry.

“We need to stop waiting for investors, sponsors, or the government,” he says. “Let’s start building. Let’s create something that will outlive us.”

The Beginning of a Movement
“Fake Oyinbo Boyfriend” may be an independent production, but its impact could extend far beyond the screen. It stands as a bold declaration that Adamawa’s creative industry is ready—not just to participate, but to compete and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s entertainment ecosystem.

If anything, this film is proof that sometimes, all it takes to spark a revolution is one person willing to move from words to action.

And in this case, that person is YolyBoy.