Honoring Allwell Ademola Through Kilanko

Tosin Clegg

The loss of Nollywood Actress, Allwell Ademola was such a huge hit to the Yoruba film industry and Nollywood at large. Ademola began acting in Nollywood productions in 1992, appearing alongside actors including Jide Kosoko, although it was not until the 2010s that she started receiving greater attention and acclaim for her roles in films including, You or I (2013), Omo Emiand False Flag (both 2017) and Ile Wa (2018).

Ademola performed in both Yoruba and English productions, and was described as supporting the early career of actor and producer Rotimi Salami.

Sequel to her passing in December 2025, herself and Actor, Rotimi Salami were working closely on a special movie titled, Kilanko: The Invisible Child. The movie was produced by Rotimi while Ademola directed it, putting her whole heart into the project.

The film stands as a moving tribute to the resilience, strength, and sacrifices of African women and mothers across generations. Rotimi revealed that the team poured their hearts into the project, working relentlessly to ensure it reflected excellence and to give Allwell the grand recognition she truly deserved. Though it is deeply painful that she is not here to witness the finished masterpiece, her spirit and legacy continue to shine brightly through this powerful and enduring story.

From an excerpt of a feature on Party Jollof TV, Rotimi explains that, “In my head, I already started imagining how people were going to give her a round of applause. This film, Kilanko, The Invisible Child is a beautiful film that Allwell put blood and sweat, we all put our blood and sweat into this to see it work. But it’s just rather unfortunate that two people had plans of something great and it’s just one person that’s here right now.”

The film is scheduled for cinema release on March 6th, following a grand premiere on March 1st. Rotimi has urged fans, colleagues, and well-wishers to rally behind the project by spreading the word and creating engaging content to amplify its reach.  It is a collective opportunity to celebrate Allwell’s dedication and ensure her final directorial vision receives the recognition and success it truly deserves.