Africa’s animation industry continues to gain international recognition as Taeps Animation Studios, one of Nigeria’s emerging animation companies, has announced a landmark partnership with Zaia Ventures to bring its ambitious feature film, Adétóún and the Heart of Time, to audiences around the world.
The collaboration marks a significant milestone not only for Taeps Animation Studios but also for the broader African animation ecosystem, bringing together world-class marketing expertise, investment, and creative talent behind an original story rooted in African mythology and heritage. The project has attracted international attention following the announcement that Ukonwa Ojo, former Global Chief Marketing Officer of Amazon Prime Video and founder of Zaia Ventures, has invested in the Lagos-based studio while joining its advisory board.
A New Chapter for African Animation
Founded by Adeoyin Okuboyejo and Ayobami Bello, Taeps Animation Studios has steadily built a reputation for producing original stories inspired by African history, culture, and folklore.
The studio first gained international recognition through its acclaimed animated short Ewa, which earned a nomination at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) 2023 and attracted viewers across Africa, Europe, and North America.
Now, Taeps is taking an even bigger leap with Adétóún and the Heart of Time, its first full-length 3D animated feature.
According to the official project page, the film follows Adétóún, a young descendant of an ancient warrior whose destiny becomes intertwined with a mystical relic capable of altering time itself. As ancient forces collide, she must embrace her heritage and confront a powerful enemy determined to reshape history.
More about the film can be found on the official project page.
Zaia Ventures Brings Global Experience
The partnership is strengthened by the involvement of Ukonwa Ojo, whose career includes leadership roles at Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Studios, MAC Cosmetics, CoverGirl, and Unilever.
Through Zaia Ventures, Ojo has focused on investing in businesses that amplify underrepresented voices and diverse storytelling.
Speaking about the collaboration, Ojo said she was excited to support Taeps Animation Studios because of its commitment to authentic African narratives and its vision of introducing global audiences to the richness and diversity of African culture.
Her investment extends beyond financial backing. As a member of Taeps’ advisory board, she will provide strategic guidance in branding, marketing, and international growth, areas that could significantly expand the studio’s global reach.
Celebrating African Mythology Through Animation
One of the most exciting aspects of Adétóún and the Heart of Time is its commitment to African mythology.
While many global animated films draw inspiration from European fairy tales or Asian folklore, Taeps is choosing to spotlight African legends, traditions, ancestry, and cultural identity.
The story explores themes including bravery, destiny, family heritage, and the enduring connection between generations, all wrapped within an epic fantasy adventure.
This approach reflects a growing movement among African creators to tell stories that resonate locally while appealing to international audiences seeking fresh perspectives and original worlds.
Why the Partnership Matters
Investment remains one of the biggest challenges facing Africa’s animation industry.
Producing high-quality animated features requires years of development, skilled artists, sophisticated technology, and substantial financial resources.
By partnering with Zaia Ventures, Taeps gains not only funding but also access to international business expertise capable of positioning the studio on a much larger stage.
Industry observers believe collaborations like this could inspire greater confidence among investors interested in Africa’s rapidly expanding creative economy.
As more studios secure strategic partnerships, opportunities for animators, writers, designers, voice actors, and producers across the continent are expected to increase.
Building on Nigeria’s Growing Animation Industry
Nigeria has witnessed remarkable growth in animation over the past decade.
Studios across the country are producing original intellectual property, collaborating with international partners, and participating in major festivals worldwide.
Projects inspired by African mythology, history, and culture have become increasingly visible, demonstrating that global audiences are eager for stories beyond traditional Western narratives.
Taeps’ ambitious feature joins a growing list of productions helping redefine perceptions of African animation, proving that locally developed stories can compete on the international stage.
Looking Ahead
Although Adétóún and the Heart of Time is still in development, expectations are already high.
With an experienced creative team, a globally connected strategic partner, and a story deeply rooted in African heritage, the project represents another encouraging sign that Nigeria’s animation industry is entering a new era of international collaboration and ambitious original storytelling.
For African animation enthusiasts, Adétóún and the Heart of Time is more than just another upcoming film, it is a statement that African myths, legends, and heroes deserve a place on the world’s biggest screens.
As production progresses, many within the animation community will be watching closely to see how Taeps Animation Studios transforms this bold vision into what could become one of Nigeria’s most significant animated features.