In a groundbreaking moment for fans of the iconic British sci-fi series, Doctor Who, an episode set in Nigeria is set to air on Saturday, May 10, 2025. This landmark event marks the first time the show will primarily take place in Africa, a significant milestone for a series that has captivated audiences for over six decades.
Adesoji Kukoyi, a devoted fan from Lagos, expressed his excitement upon hearing the news. "I screamed like a little girl!" he exclaimed, recalling how he dropped everything to watch the show as a child in the 1980s. The upcoming episode, titled "The Story and the Engine," promises a rich exploration of Nigerian culture and storytelling, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of the nation.
This episode, written by Nigerian-born playwright Inua Ellams and directed by Makella McPherson, delves into themes of identity, myth, and the power of storytelling. Ellams, known for his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, brings a unique voice to the series, celebrating African narratives while maintaining the show's sci-fi essence.
Set in Lagos in 2019, the plot revolves around the Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa, and his companion Belinda, portrayed by Varada Sethu. They visit a barbershop owned by Omo, played by Sule Rimi, only to discover that people are mysteriously disappearing after their visits. The barbershop, intriguingly perched on the back of a colossal mechanical spider, serves as a portal to other dimensions, powered by the stories of its customers.
Ariyon Bakare plays the enigmatic Barber, whose character is inspired by the West African trickster god Anansi. Ellams notes that the Barber represents the erasure of African narratives and the importance of reclaiming these stories. He stated, "I thought about someone like that... a man of African descent who went around building or crafting storytelling systems for the whole world, but was constantly just slashed and removed from even the footnotes of his work."
The episode's climax features a powerful moment where the Doctor defeats the Barber using a six-word story: "I'm born. I die. I'm born." This narrative device not only highlights the importance of storytelling but also echoes the show's long-standing tradition of using clever wordplay to resolve conflicts.
As for why Doctor Who has resonated so deeply with Nigerian audiences, Ellams suggests that the Doctor embodies qualities that mirror Nigerian culture. "Nigerians are sort of loud, gregarious people... the Doctor is mysterious, boisterous, sort of over-confident but somehow manages to save the day," he explained.
Despite the excitement surrounding this new episode, there are challenges for Nigerian fans. The show is no longer broadcast on public television in Nigeria, requiring viewers to subscribe to Disney Plus to catch the latest episodes. Nonetheless, Kukoyi remains optimistic, asserting that a dedicated group of Nigerian Doctor Who enthusiasts will tune in to witness the TARDIS materializing in Lagos.
Ellams' episode is not only a celebration of African culture but also a reflection of the Doctor's evolving identity. The character's journey through various cultures and histories allows for a broader understanding of the complexities of race and identity. As the Doctor navigates his experiences in Lagos, he finds acceptance and community, contrasting with previous episodes that addressed racism through confrontation.
The episode also features a montage of past Doctors, including Patrick Troughton, Jon Pertwee, and David Tennant, reinforcing the idea that the Doctor's identity is a tapestry woven from countless stories. This connection to the show's history is further emphasized when the Doctor describes his body as a "walking library" of all the lives he has lived.
Visually, "The Story and the Engine" promises to be a feast for the senses. The barbershop's magic mirror displays stories as they unfold, creating a storybook quality that enhances the episode's themes. Director Makella McPherson skillfully balances the cozy atmosphere of the barbershop with the claustrophobic tension of the unfolding mystery.
However, some critiques suggest that the episode's ambitious narrative could benefit from a longer runtime to fully develop its complex themes. The intertwining of African mythology and the Doctor's adventures creates a rich tapestry, but the pacing may leave some viewers wanting more depth.
As the Doctor Who franchise continues to evolve, this episode stands as a testament to the show's ability to reinvent itself while honoring its past. With the introduction of new characters and storylines rooted in African folklore, Doctor Who is not just telling a story; it is weaving a narrative that celebrates diversity and the power of storytelling.
Fans eagerly await the episode's debut, hoping it will pave the way for more African-inspired stories within the Doctor Who universe. "Finally, he is coming!" Kukoyi said, reflecting the anticipation of many who have longed for representation in a series that has shaped their childhoods and imaginations.
As Doctor Who prepares to air its first episode set in Nigeria, it also sets the stage for future explorations of culture, identity, and the universal power of stories. The Doctor's journey through Lagos promises to be a memorable adventure, one that resonates with viewers both old and new.
As the world watches, the Doctor's arrival in Nigeria signals not just a new chapter for the series but also a celebration of the rich storytelling traditions that continue to inspire generations.
