Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has opened up about the challenges faced by his KAP Film Village in Igbojaye, Oyo State.
These issues were highlighted during an interview held in collaboration with the French Embassy in Nigeria, as part of the KAP Film and Television Academy’s Advanced Filmmaking Masterclass.
The intensive three-week program concluded on Monday with a graduation ceremony at the KAP Hub in Lagos.
The training, which ran from November 25 to December 16, saw 40 aspiring filmmakers sharpen their skills across various filmmaking disciplines, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography and sound, under the mentorship of industry experts such as Tunde Kelani, Bimbo Akintola, Tunde Babalola and Judith Audu.
Kunle, in his interview, discussed the mission behind his KAP Film Village, which he described as more than just a filmmaking centre.
“The KAP Film Village is not just a centre, it is a centre built to actually help build the country,” he said.
The village, which also serves as a tourist destination with accommodations, has positively impacted the local economy over the past three years, with Kunle expressing pride in its contribution.
However, the filmmaker raised concerns over the lack of government support.
“It hasn’t gone anywhere,” he said, referring to a partnership appeal with the government.
He revealed that the village has been relying on diesel for power, which he described as unsustainable.
Additionally, he shared that despite having a transformer, the site still suffers from unreliable power supply, with no electricity reaching over 60 acres of land.
He also pointed out that the road leading to the village has not been included in the state’s planned road repairs.
Despite these challenges, Kunle remains committed to his vision for KAP Academy, which has been running for two years.
The academy has partnered with organisations like the American Embassy and a German group to provide training and empower the next generation of filmmakers.
The Anikulapo director expressed pride in the students’ progress, emphasising that his focus remains on capacity building and creating opportunities for young people.
Speaking about his partnership with the French Embassy, he acknowledged its vital role in funding the programme, particularly in covering students’ school fees.
“A continuation of this support will help build a strong foundation for the next generation,” he added.
Kunle’s drive to support Nigeria’s film industry stems from his deep belief in the country’s potential.
“I am a Nigerian, I believe in Nigeria, and everything I build is tied to Nigeria,” he stated, stressing the importance of contributing to the nation’
The event concluded with a cocktail reception where participants celebrated their achievements alongside industry veterans.