Nigerian actor and producer Demola Yusuf has launched Film Kwara, an initiative to support the film industry, develop creative talent, and strengthen the film and screen industry in Kwara State.
The initiative aims to unite filmmakers, promote collaboration and professionalism, encourage people to tell their stories, and attract film productions to the state.
Yusuf is also an award-winning actor, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice awards (AMVCA) winner and Africa Movie Academy awards (AMAA) nominee for the film Alaise and founder of Idirissu Entertainment Empire.
With the use of Film Kwara, he aims to help create an environment where filmmakers and other creatives can enhance their skill sets, network with other creatives, and gain access to opportunities to further their careers.
What Film Kwara Stands For
According to its introduction, Film Kwara is a body that makes contributions to the development of the film and screen industry in Kwara State.
It aims to include the industry in the initiative, promote networking, collaboration and professionalism, nurture new talent, promote local stories and foster connections that can make a difference for the industry, the initiative said.
It also seeks to draw film productions to Kwara, which would also present opportunities for the local film-related professionals and businesses.
Film Kwara recognized that it would take time, commitment and cooperation from various parties to develop a successful industry.
The initiative said it doesn’t have all the solutions, but it’s opting to be a part of the industry’s development process.
Why Film Kwara Matters to Nollywood
The production of films in Nigeria has spread from the traditional hubs of the film industry, thus offering opportunities for the filmmakers, actors, writers, cinematographers, editors, and other professionals in the country.
But to create a sustainable film industry, more than just producing films is required. Training, equipment, funding, production facilities, and professional networks are also critical sources of access.
The Kwara State Government has already begun to invest in film production infrastructure, with the Sugar Factory Film Studios, Ilorin, being promoted as one of the investment areas in the development of the creative economy in the state. In 2025, the studio presented its first production, Ajuwaya Series. Find out more about the project.
In this backdrop, collaboration and talent development are the key issues that Film Kwara is addressing to bring creative talents together and inspire more involvement in the screen industry in the state.
The project may also help to draw attention to cultural stories stemming from Kwara’s culture, people, and experiences that could provide opportunities for filmmakers to attract viewers outside Kwara State.
What Comes Next for Film Kwara?
The effect of Film Kwara will rely on the way its declared goals are implemented as chances to go ahead in making films.
There are a number of needs of local practitioners that could be met through the implementation and maintenance of training programmes, networking events, talent showcases, industry directories and partnerships with production companies.
Relationships with relevant government institutions, private investors, educational institutions and media outlets can also expand and help to achieve the longer-term aims of the initiative.
For aspiring filmmakers, these could be chances to connect with other people, learn from the professionals, and find alternative pathways into the filmmaking industry.
Established practitioners can benefit from improved networks, which may stimulate new productions and partnerships within Kwara State.
Film Kwara has presented its mission as a collective effort, recognising that the development of a film industry requires the involvement of people and organisations willing to contribute to its growth.
With the project’s activities getting underway, focus will shift towards its opportunities for the people who will help shape the future of filmmaking in Kwara State.
