The Nigerian graphic novel ‘Trials of the Spear‘ is being adapted into an animated feature film through a pioneering partnership between Nigeria’s Comic Republic Motion Plus and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).
The project brings to life the story of Dayo Darawu, an outcast who must overcome rejection to undertake a legendary challenge known as the Trials and become the defender of his people.
Rooted in Nigerian mythology and set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos, the original graphic novel is celebrated for its rich heritage, layered storytelling, and cinematic action — qualities now being reimagined through the esteemed lens of Japanese anime artistry.
Megumi Okawa, the production manager of the adaption and the freelance producer with ONE PIECE, highlighted the project’s global ambitions.
Megumi said the adaptation will merge African storytelling power with Japanese animation precision while announcing a target for a global release in the spring of 2026.
Jide Martin, CEO of Comic Republic and executive producer of the original comic, emphasized the partnership’s role in fostering a new generation of African talent.
“There is immense passion for anime across Africa, and this partnership creates a bridge for African talent to learn from some of the best in the world while sharing our stories on a global stage,” he said.
“We are proud of what this represents not just for our teams, but for the future of African animation.”
‘Trials of the Spear’ producers said the collaboration aligns with Comic Republic’s international expansion, after it partnered with Universal Studios to explore film and TV adaptations.
Miyuki Kitabatake, TAIDO project leader at Arc and Beyond, said: “When I first saw the work from CR Motion Plus, I was deeply moved. With TAIDO, our mission is to connect Africa’s extraordinary talent with Japan’s decades of experience in animation. This partnership is about pioneering new visual expressions the world has never seen”.
JETRO underscored the initiative’s broader economic and cultural significance. Hokuto Shibata, deputy trade commissioner of JETRO in Lagos, described the project as a foundational step.
“We believe this collaboration represents an important first step toward deeper creative and commercial partnerships between Japan and Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the partnership seeks to develop creative skills, spark local employment, and define a new visual language that celebrates African identity.
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