Nigeria: Boy’s Tragic Drowning During Baptism Shakes Church In Orire Nwani’s New Film

Principal Photography has wrapped Baptism, a new mystery thriller directed by Nigerian filmmaker Orire Nwani. The film centres on a church baptism that takes a dark turn when a young boy tragically drowns during the ceremony, leaving the congregation reeling and uncovering disturbing secrets within the community.

The emotional story unfolds around St. Jude’s Cathedral members, who journey to a remote location for what should be a joyful occasion. But the boy’s death sets off a chain of haunting events, stirring up hidden tensions and testing the faith of the church members.

Nollywood stars Ozzy Agu, Toni Tones, and Bimbo Manuel headline the cast, supported by Yvonne Jegede, Tomi Ojo, Jide Kosoko, and Bobby Ekpe. The project was shot entirely in Lagos.

Produced by Josh Olaoluwa and Goodness Emmanuel, with cinematography by Fadamana Okwong, Baptism was managed on set by Rume Orukpe. Executive producers include Efosa Ogbomo, Josh Olaoluwa, and director Orire Nwani, and under their production houses are One Child Grace Studios and Conceptified Media.

While no release date has been announced, Baptism marks another significant step in Nwani’s career. The filmmaker was recently selected for the prestigious Red Sea Series Lab 2025, signalling growing recognition for his storytelling voice in African cinema.

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