Governor Makinde hails Kunle Afolayan’s film village as proof that Oyo’s tourism economic strategy is already delivering results

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding the state’s economy through tourism, describing it as a central pillar in his development strategy.

Also read: Kunle Afolayan’s KAP film village set to ignite African creativity in Oyo

Speaking at the inauguration of the Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Film Village and Resort on Saturday, located in Igbojaye, Itesiwaju Local Government Area, the governor declared the project a major achievement that aligns with the state’s vision for sustainable growth.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Makinde noted that the new facility represents tangible progress in implementing Oyo’s *tourism economic strategy*, which he first outlined during his first term in office.

“During my first term, we launched a road map for accelerated development (2019–2023) built on four pillars: education, health, security, and economic expansion through infrastructure and agribusiness,” the governor said.

“For this second term, the road map for sustainable development (2023–2027) includes tourism and solid minerals development. This film village is living proof that we are making good on that commitment.”

He congratulated renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, hailing the project as a landmark investment that has placed Igbojaye on the global tourism map. He also praised Afolayan’s decision to bring the multi-million-naira facility to Oyo, despite not being a native of the state.

“For us in Oyo, we welcome everyone who can add value. Regardless of where you are from, we encourage investment that supports our vision,” he added.

In support of the film village, Makinde directed the Itesiwaju Local Government Council to begin work immediately on the Okaka-Igbojaye road. He pledged to approve funding for the project, assuring the public that the government would ensure the village thrives.

“We will do everything within our means to support this resort. I’ve asked the Commissioner for Energy to install a solar mini-grid here, and we are also planning a dedicated electricity line from Okaka, just 23 kilometres away. By Christmas, reliable power must be in place,” he stated.

The governor further emphasised that tourism plays a critical role in Oyo’s economic diversification and that the state’s strategic location near Lagos and ongoing infrastructure upgrades make it an ideal investment destination.

He revealed that the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan would soon receive a wide-bodied aircraft, signalling its transformation into a regional international airport.

“Our goal is to create regional air connectivity. With short flights from Ibadan to Otu and onward to Igbojaye, plus new roads, we can easily bring tourists here. We are now expanding our plans to include tourism infrastructure even in our security initiatives,” Makinde explained.

Top government officials, including the Commissioners for Culture and Tourism, Information, Youth and Sports, as well as senior advisers and investment agency directors, were in attendance at the event.

Governor Makinde concluded by inviting local and foreign investors to take advantage of Oyo State’s business-friendly climate, stating, “We are open for investment from all who can add value.”