Kwara Unveils Remi Tinubu–Backed Nollywood Series

The Kwara State government has unveiled its first film, Ajuwaya Series, that mirrors the devastating consequences of kidnapping and other crimes in the society. The movie, a N290 million project, had 85 per cent of its production executed in the state-of-the-art Sugar Factory Film Studios. At a media briefing for the unveiling of the project […]

The Kwara State government has unveiled its first film, Ajuwaya Series, that mirrors the devastating consequences of kidnapping and other crimes in the society.

The movie, a N290 million project, had 85 per cent of its production executed in the state-of-the-art Sugar Factory Film Studios.

At a media briefing for the unveiling of the project in Ilorin on Tuesday, Managing Director of the Studios, Gbenga Titiloye, said the movie stands the chance of attracting direct foreign investment.

According to him, “This is the only functional film studio in Africa”.

He thanked the Governor’s foresight and his resolve to create a platform that nurtures artistry, innovation, and economic vitality.

“Today, we gather to celebrate a milestone that marks not just the completion of a facility, but the dawn of a new era in Nigerian cinema and cultural expression, the successful completion of the Ajuwaya project.

“This moment stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision, perseverance, and collaborative effort converge for the common good.

“What the Governor has achieved here is foreign direct investment because this is the only functional film studio in Africa, and 85 percent of this movie was done in this studio.

“His Excellency’s willingness to champion a film studio in Nigeria demonstrates not only a bold strategic mind but also a deep faith in our people and their talent. It is through that foresight and resolve that we have arrived at this moment: a state-backed endeavour that nurtures artistry, innovation, and economic vitality”.

Titiloye also appreciated Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her generous donation to the Sugar Factory Studios, adding that her gesture reflects the spirit of national renewal and investment in the creative economy.

“This grant (from the First Lady) is more than funding; it is a signal, a beacon, and a pledge that Nigeria will not only tell its stories but export them with pride and excellence,” he said.

Commissioner for Communications, Mrs. Bola Olukoju, explained that the studio is a creative initiative designed to drive job creation and reposition Kwara as a national hub for film production.

She said a total of 1,211 people were involved in the production, with 712 of them now residing in the state.

According to her, the film was supported by a N350 million grant from the Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Mrs. Olukoju described the production as a major breakthrough for the creative economy in Kwara.

She noted that the project provided opportunities for a wide range of artisans and professionals, including carpenters, tailors, caterers, drivers, and make-up artists.

“Forty-five percent of people in Nollywood are from Kwara State, and that’s what we built upon. This film has opened up a whole new creative ecosystem where local talents are now being celebrated,” she said.

Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Princess Adebukola Babalola, called on youths to take advantage of the opportunities created by the Sugar Factory Studios.

She emphasized that the project was conceived to open up a new channel for job creation, talent development, and positive storytelling about Nigeria.

General Manager and Producer of the film, Mrs. Grace Babasola, described the project as a national treasure designed to inspire creativity and promote unity through storytelling.

She said with Ajuwaya, Kwara has not only made a film but also delivered a statement that reaffirms the power of culture and creativity as instruments for peace, unity, and progress.

Babasola said the success of Ajuwaya demonstrates how film can serve as a medium for both social change and economic empowerment.

Daily Trust reports that Ajuwaya: The Series, featured some of Nollywood’s finest stars such as Femi Adebayo, Desmond Elliot, Keppy Ekpeyong, Segun Arinze, Tina Mba and Monalisa Chinda, among others