The First Feature Film in Nigeria: A Milestone in African Cinema 

In the 1920s, colonial filmmakers began creating movies for local audiences in Nigeria, often using mobile cinemas for screenings. The earliest Nigerian feature film, “Palaver,” was made in 1926 by Geoffrey Barkas and marked a significant milestone. Notably, it was the first film to feature Nigerian actors in speaking roles, with actors like Dawiya and Yikuba taking part.

Directed by English filmmaker Geoffrey Barkas, “Palaver” is a silent film that was shot in the British colony of Nigeria. Filmed among the Sura and Angas people in present-day Bauchi and Plateau states in Northern Nigeria, “Palaver” tells the story of a conflict between a British District Officer and a tin miner, which escalates into a war.

The film is notable for its ambitious scope, capturing the lush landscapes, traditions, and interactions of indigenous communities. It serves as a unique historical artifact, providing insights into the visual representations of Africa during the early 20th century.

The movie “Palaver” revolves around a young English nurse who becomes entangled in a love triangle. She is torn between Captain Peter Allison, the British District Officer, and Mark Fernandez, a tin miner and economic mercenary. It portrays a clash of cultures and values as the protagonist navigates her way through unfamiliar territories and faces challenges brought about by colonialism. The narrative touches upon themes of cultural exchange, power dynamics, and the complexities of colonial relationships.

The film also showcases pioneering cinematic techniques of its time, using on-location filming to capture authentic African landscapes and cultures. While “Palaver” reflects certain colonial biases and stereotypes prevalent at the time, it also provides a unique perspective on how filmmakers of that time interpreted African societies and traditions. Looking back, the only aspects of “Palaver” that were truly Nigerian were the filming location and the actors. The film’s narrative was entirely presented from the viewpoint of British actors, offering a perspective centered around their experiences.

“Palaver” remains a rare artifact of early African cinema, offering a glimpse into the colonial mindset and the visual representation of Africa in the 1920s. While the film’s portrayal of African cultures is subject to criticism, it also serves as a starting point for discussions about the historical context and the evolution of cinematic representation.

The making of “Palaver” was not without challenges, as it was created within a colonial context that could impact the portrayal of indigenous people and cultures. However, the film’s existence underscores the potential for early cinema to open doors for both local and international filmmakers to explore diverse narratives and contribute to the cinematic landscape.

“Palaver” occupies a unique place in the history of African cinema, reflecting the complexities of its time and providing insights into colonial narratives and cultural dynamics. This narrative aligned with the prevailing European notion that colonial powers were benevolent in colonizing Africa. While acknowledging its limitations and colonial biases, “Palaver” remains an essential touchstone for understanding the evolution of cinematic representation in Africa and the broader global context.