By Nehru Odeh
Award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan’s KAP Film and Television Academy, in partnership with the Oyo State Government, has graduated 165 emerging filmmakers from its Filmmaking Residency Programme.
The graduation ceremony, showcasing the emergence of new filmmakers drawn meticulously from the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, was held on Wednesday, October 15, at the picturesque KAP Film Village & Resort in Igbojaye, Oyo State.
The participants had just completed a 10-day intensive filmmaking residency programme at the resort, supported by SONY and Kontakt Pro Nigeria. The initiative provided participants with practical, hands-on training across the core aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, producing, editing, and sound design.
A major highlight of the event was the screening of eight short films produced by the residency groups. Each film reflected storytelling, collaboration, and authentic depictions of local culture, earning heartfelt applause from guests and faculty members alike.
At the ceremony, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, represented by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, lauded the programme as a significant economic and cultural development milestone for the state. In his remarks, he commended Kunle Afolayan and the KAP team for establishing a creative ecosystem that promotes film, talent, and tourism in Oyo State. He also congratulated the students for their dedication, passion, and craftsmanship, describing their work as “a true representation of Oyo’s cultural pride and creative excellence.”
Delivering a heartfelt and inspiring address, Kunle Afolayan, Founder of KAP Film & Television Academy and visionary behind the KAP Film Village & Resort, commended the state government’s efforts in providing a viable platform for the economic empowerment of youths in the state. He further admonished the students on the importance of discipline, creativity, and cultural identity in filmmaking.
“Attention to detail and commitment to creativity are non-negotiable for great filmmakers. These students have shown that talent, when nurtured in the right environment, can flourish into excellence. I encourage them to keep making films together and continue telling our stories with pride,” said Afolayan.
The graduating students also received constructive feedback from distinguished industry experts and faculty members, including Tunde Kelani, Joke Silva, Kemi Adesoye, Rotimi Fakunle, and Lola Maja, who all commended their storytelling, teamwork, and technical growth over the course of the programme.
The Oluigbo of Igbojaye, Oba Zaccheus Olatunji Oyeleke Alobaloke III, commended both the government and KAP Academy, expressing his satisfaction at the fulfilment of the objectives set for the KAP Film Village and Resort when he gave his royal blessing for its establishment.
The KAP Filmmaking Residency Programme reinforces the Academy’s mission to train, empower, and inspire the next generation of African storytellers.
About KAP Film & Television Academy
Founded by award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, the KAP Film & Television Academy is one of Nigeria’s leading creative institutions dedicated to nurturing new voices in film and television. The Academy offers professional training in filmmaking, screenwriting, editing, cinematography, sound, and production management, equipping students with both technical skills and industry exposure.
About KAP Film Village & Resort
Located in Igbojaye, Oyo State, the KAP Film Village & Resort is a unique creative retreat combining filmmaking infrastructure with the tranquillity of nature. It provides filmmakers, artists, and tourists with a space for creation, relaxation, and collaboration — and has hosted major film productions, including the blockbuster Aníkúlápó.
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