The Story⚡
A Nigerian story of an outcast’s rise to heroism is crossing borders, as Comic Republic joins forces with Japanese experts to create an animated feature film.
Tell Me More
Comic Republic’s animation division, CR Motion Plus, has formed a partnership with Arc and Beyond, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and Megumi Okawa to produce an animated adaptation of the graphic novel Trials of the Spear. Okawa, a freelance production manager who has worked on ONE PIECE since 2023, is providing direction and production guidance for the project.
The story centers on Dayo Darawu, an outcast who overcomes rejection to face legendary trials and protect his community. Drawing from Nigerian mythology and set in Lagos, the graphic novel features detailed narratives and action sequences, which the adaptation will reinterpret using Japanese animation techniques.
Named the TAIDO project, this collaboration aims to connect African creators with Japanese animation practices, allowing for skill exchange and the sharing of stories worldwide. The film is scheduled for a global release in spring 2026.
Jide Martin, CEO of Comic Republic and executive producer, noted the strong interest in anime across Africa and described the partnership as a way for local talent to learn from experienced professionals while presenting African narratives globally. He views it as a step forward for African animation.
Megumi Okawa called the project the start of a significant journey, driven by Nigerian creators expressing their own perspectives. She hopes it will encourage further ties between the two regions’ creative industries.
Miyuki Kitabatake, TAIDO project leader at Arc and Beyond and a producer on the film, expressed being impressed by CR Motion Plus’s work. She stated that TAIDO seeks to link Africa’s talent with Japan’s animation background to develop unique visual styles.
JETRO’s Hokuto Shibata, deputy trade commissioner in Lagos, highlighted Nigeria’s role as a creative center and sees the collaboration as an initial move toward stronger creative and business links between Japan and Nigeria.
This follows Comic Republic’s earlier agreement with Universal Studios to explore adaptations from its superhero universe. The partnership also focuses on building creative abilities, generating jobs, and establishing a visual approach that highlights African elements. Production is advancing toward the 2026 release.
In Summary
The animated feature adapts Trials of the Spear, blending Nigerian mythology with Japanese animation for a spring 2026 global premiere as this project promotes skill development, employment, and cross-cultural exchange between Nigeria and Japan.
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