KAP Film & Television Academy empowers 165 young filmmakers in Oyo State after a 10-day residency, inspiring creativity and cultural pride
The KAP Film & Television Academy, in partnership with the Oyo State Government, has empowered 165 emerging filmmakers through an intensive 10-day filmmaking residency programme aimed at nurturing creativity, promoting cultural identity, and expanding opportunities in Nigeria’s fast-growing screen industry.
Held at the scenic KAP Film Village & Resort in Igbojaye, Oyo State, the graduation ceremony on Wednesday marked a milestone in the state’s creative and economic development agenda.
Participants drawn from all 33 local government areas of the state received hands-on training in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, producing, and sound design.
Supported by SONY and Kontakt Pro Nigeria, the residency programme was structured to equip young talents with global-standard skills and professional exposure needed to thrive in today’s film industry.
A highlight of the ceremony was the screening of eight short films produced by the students — powerful stories that celebrated teamwork, authenticity, and the richness of local culture. Each film received glowing reviews and applause from faculty members and guests.
Speaking at the event, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, described the initiative as a “transformative stride in Oyo’s creative and economic growth.”
He commended Kunle Afolayan and his team for building a vibrant ecosystem that merges film, talent, and tourism.
“This programme represents Oyo’s cultural pride and creative excellence,” Olatunbosun said. “It demonstrates our commitment to developing the creative economy and empowering our youth to tell their own stories.”
Delivering an impassioned address, Kunle Afolayan, Founder of KAP Film & Television Academy, praised the students’ discipline, creativity, and determination, stressing the importance of attention to detail and authenticity in filmmaking.
“Talent, when nurtured in the right environment, flourishes into excellence,” Afolayan said. “These students have shown immense promise, and I urge them to keep creating films that tell our stories with pride.”
The event also featured masterful critiques and words of encouragement from industry veterans such as Tunde Kelani, Joke Silva, Kemi Adesoye, Rotimi Fakunle, and Lola Maja, who applauded the students’ storytelling and technical growth throughout the programme.
In his goodwill message, the Oluigbo of Igbojaye, Oba Zaccheus Olatunji Oyeleke Alobaloke III, expressed joy at seeing the KAP Film Village thrive, noting that it was fulfilling its mission of cultural enrichment and creative empowerment.
The KAP Filmmaking Residency Programme underscores the Academy’s mission to train, empower, and inspire the next generation of African storytellers.
Founded by award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, the Academy continues to provide professional film education in Nigeria, combining technical training with industry mentorship and exposure to global best practices.
With initiatives like this, the KAP Film & Television Academy is not only shaping careers but also strengthening Nigeria’s identity as a hub for creativity, culture, and cinematic excellence.
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