The unveiling of the Okiki Films Village in Ibadan has brought fresh momentum to Nigeria's evolving film village movement. The seven-acre production space, developed by filmmaker Sunday Esan, is designed to recreate pre-colonial African settings, featuring traditional mud houses and symbolic architecture. Located in Akinyele Local Government Area, the facility aims to support epic, historically rooted productions and preserve indigenous storytelling traditions.
The launch has drawn attention across the Yoruba film industry, with actors and filmmakers hailing it as another step toward building dedicated creative spaces that reflect African identity on screen. This move away from improvised locations toward purpose-built environments is a significant shift in Nigeria's film sector. From Ibadan to Ijebu and beyond, filmmakers are no longer just searching for locations, they are constructing them.
Oyo State is at the forefront of this growth, with a clear cluster of purpose-built production spaces forming in the area. The state's available land, strong Yoruba cultural settings, lower production costs, and closeness to talent in Lagos are driving this development. Filmmakers are creating complete film locations, where filming, training, relaxation, and culture all come together.
The KAP Film Village and Resort, developed by filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, is a notable example of this trend. Located in Igbojaye, the facility functions as both a film production hub and a luxury resort, blending natural landscapes with constructed sets. The village features multiple film-ready environments embedded in natural terrain and accommodation clusters such as Ire Grove and Adelove.
Oyo State is rapidly emerging as Nigeria's backlot capital, with its rich cultural heritage and favorable production conditions. The growth of film villages in the state is a testament to its potential as a hub for African storytelling. As more filmmakers turn to purpose-built locations, Oyo State is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of Nigeria's film industry.
