Nollywood is bringing back one of its most recognisable action franchises as ‘Issakaba: The Return’ is set to arrive in cinemas nationwide on November 13, 2026.
The sequel to the 2001 Nollywood classic was announced by veteran filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen, who directed and produced the original film. The upcoming movie marks the franchise’s return to the big screen 25 years after the first instalment.
A major part of the film’s appeal is the return of Sam Dede, who reprises his iconic role as Ebube. Set 25 years after the events of the original, the new story sees Ebube confront a new and more sophisticated wave of crime, darkness and insecurity.
Imasuen also returns as director, with the sequel filmed in Asaba, Delta State. The cast combines familiar Nollywood veterans with a new generation of actors, including Chidi Mokeme, Iyabo Ojo, Regina Daniels, Alex Osifo, Charles Okafor, Nosa Rex, Mark Angel and Phyna.
The original Issakaba became a cult favourite for its blend of action, horror, traditional mysticism and social commentary. Inspired by the real-life Bakassi Boys, the film followed Ebube and the Issakaba Boys as they fought criminal elements terrorising their community.
The sequel arrives at a notable point in the franchise’s history, exactly 25 years after the original film’s theatrical era. It also continues a growing trend of Nollywood revisiting familiar titles and characters for a new generation of audiences.
With Sam Dede returning as Ebube and Lancelot Imasuen back behind the camera, ‘Issakaba: The Return’ is positioned as both a continuation of a beloved Nollywood story and a modern revisit of one of the industry’s most memorable action franchises.
‘Issakaba: The Return’ hits cinemas nationwide on November 13, 2026.