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Beloved Classic Returns to Primetime in 2026
In a groundbreaking collaboration poised to redefine Nigerian television, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Natives Filmworks, and Innovative Television Kontents (ITK) have signed a production deal to remake the iconic 1980s TV drama Cock Crow at Dawn. The agreement, announced in Abuja, marks the return of one of Nigeria’s most cherished television series to primetime in 2026.
The partnership brings together some of the most accomplished names in Nigerian film and television. Natives Filmworks, headed by award-winning filmmaker Steve Gukas, is known for acclaimed titles such as Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, 93 Days, and A Place in the Stars. Joining the collaboration is Innovative Television Kontents (ITK), led by Dimbo Atiya, creator and producer of popular TV series such as Sons of the Caliphate, Halita, and Drawing Strength.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Steve Gukas, Founder and CEO of Natives Filmworks, described the project as “a journey back to our roots, one that celebrates Nigerian resilience, community, and the timeless values that Cock Crow at Dawn represented.” He emphasised that the remake will maintain the heart of the original series while using modern storytelling techniques and production standards to connect with a new generation of viewers.
For Dimbo Atiya, CEO of ITK, the project aligns perfectly with his company’s mission to produce “clean, wholesome, and family-oriented television content that uplifts and entertains.” He expressed excitement about reintroducing the show to today’s audiences, adding that the team is committed to “preserving its legacy while weaving in contemporary issues that resonate with modern Nigerian life.”
Originally broadcast on NTA in the early 1980s, Cock Crow at Dawn was created by Peter Igho and became a cultural phenomenon. The show highlighted themes of rural development, integrity, and nation-building, reflecting Nigeria’s aspirations during a pivotal period of its history. Its memorable characters, music, and moral lessons left a lasting imprint on viewers across generations.
The NTA Director General welcomed the collaboration as part of the broadcaster’s broader strategy to revive classic Nigerian stories through high-quality partnerships with leading producers. “Cock Crow at Dawn is part of our national heritage,” he said. “This remake will not only rekindle nostalgia but also inspire new conversations about the values that define us as a people.”
The new Cock Crow at Dawn is expected to feature a blend of seasoned actors and emerging talents, with filming scheduled to begin in 2025. The production team has hinted at a refreshed storyline that retains the agricultural and developmental themes of the original while integrating modern challenges such as climate change, youth migration, and social transformation.
With this collaboration, NTA, Natives Filmworks, and ITK are set to deliver a revival that bridges generations, reminding Nigerians why Cock Crow at Dawn remains one of the country’s most beloved television legacies.
The series is slated to premiere on NTA’s primetime lineup in 2026.
