Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, is renowned as one of the world’s most prolific film industries, second only to Hollywood. Known for its authentic storytelling and cultural richness, Nollywood continues to evolve in production quality and infrastructure. One significant development shaping the industry is the rise of film villages: dedicated spaces equipped to serve as controlled locations for filmmaking. Unlike traditional film studios, these expansive areas often reflect the cultural and historical essence of Nigeria, doubling as tourist attractions and recreational centres.
While these film villages promise to streamline production and enhance creativity, they face criticisms. Challenges like a lack of governmental support, one-dimensional usage for specific genres like epics, and insufficient infrastructure tailored for diverse storytelling remain points of contention. However, private investments from filmmakers have sparked a shift in the narrative, with many establishing their film villages to overcome logistical barriers and elevate Nollywood’s global relevance.
Other Film Villages in Nigeria
Several film villages already exist across the country, such as the Delta State Leisure Park and Film Village, popularly known as the Asaba Film Village. This facility, located in Anwai, Asaba, has become a significant hub, hosting countless film professionals and events. Additionally, the now-defunct Tinapa Resort in Cross River State once aimed to establish itself as a filmmaking mecca. While these projects hold promise, the crux of this transformation lies in individual filmmakers who have taken bold steps to create their own film villages.
Kunle Afolayan: KAP Film Village and Resort
Kunle Afolayan, one of Nollywood’s most prominent filmmakers, launched the KAP Film Village and Resort in 2022. Located on 60 acres of land in Igbojaye, Oyo State, the facility is a harmonious blend of production and recreation. It features luxury accommodations, creative centres for workshops and festivals, and recreational facilities like swimming pools and restaurants.
Afolayan’s vision for KAP Film Village was inspired by his need for authentic settings for historical dramas, such as his Netflix hit Aníkúlápó. The facility has since been used to produce several films, including Ijogbon and Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre. Afolayan emphasises its dual purpose: fostering creativity while offering jobs and inspiration to younger generations.
Ibrahim Chatta: Africhatta Film Village and Resorts
In 2023, actor and producer Ibrahim Chatta unveiled the Africhatta Film Village in Oyo town. Spanning 74 acres and valued at ₦1.4 billion, the village is a cultural masterpiece featuring traditional Yoruba architecture, including thatched houses and intricate artworks.
The film village has quickly gained traction as a production hotspot, hosting projects like Iyalode by Toyin Abraham Ajoje, and allegedly: Lisabi. It also supports TV series like Eleran. Chatta’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and enhancing production values makes Africhatta a standout facility in Nollywood’s landscape.
Bolanle Austen-Peters: BAP Film Village
Bolanle Austen-Peters, renowned for her theatrical productions and films, added another feather to her cap with the BAP Film Village in Epe, Lagos State. The 10,000-acre facility, completed in 2024, was transformed from dense greenery into a vibrant hub for filmmaking. It has already served as the backdrop for Austen-Peters’ Netflix period drama House of Ga’a, set in the 18th-century Oyo Empire.
Open for both recreational and commercial purposes, BAP Film Village offers filmmakers the opportunity to bring their visions to life while pushing the boundaries of cinematic artistry. Austen-Peters’ rapid development of the facility is a testament to her determination to contribute to Nollywood’s growth.
Filmmaker, Okechukwu Oku (Black Rose) is currently building a film village called Oracle Films Village in Enugu. More details on his film village will soon be unravelled.
Looking Ahead
While film villages represent a leap forward for Nollywood, challenges persist. Many of these spaces are tailored for epic and cultural narratives, leaving other genres underserved. Additionally, the concentration of filmmaking in urban centres like Lagos makes travel and logistics costly for productions in remote areas.
To truly harness the potential of film villages, government collaboration is essential. Stakeholders must work together to establish more inclusive, globally appealing facilities. By doing so, Nollywood can solidify its position as a cultural and economic powerhouse, attracting filmmakers from across Africa and beyond.
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