By Segun Fagbemi, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s push for a brighter future in Nigerian filmmaking is yielding results as the state-owned Sugar Factory Film Studios unveiled its first movie, Ajuwaya Series.
The film — 85 percent of which was produced in the state-of-the-art studios — was financed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who supported the facility with a grant of ₦350 million.
At a media briefing to unveil the project in Ilorin on Tuesday, the Managing Director of the studios, Gbenga Titiloye, said the movie has the potential to attract direct foreign investment, describing the studio as “the only functional film studio in Africa.”
He commended the governor’s foresight and his administration’s commitment to creating a platform that nurtures artistry, innovation, and economic growth.
“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,” he said.
“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 here.
“His Excellency’s willingness to champion a film studio in Nigeria demonstrates not only a bold strategic mind but also 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 support to the Sugar Factory Film Studios, describing her gesture as a reflection 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.
Speaking on the lessons from Ajuwaya, Titiloye said the movie exemplifies how national and regional efforts can combine to create sustainable infrastructure for culture and the economy.
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Princess Olubukola Babalola urged the youth to take advantage of the Sugar Film Studios to explore opportunities in the creative industry, saying theatre arts remain a vital model for reflecting modern society.
“This studio is important for economic growth, development, and projecting our state as a leader in theatre and the creative industry generally. Let us encourage our youth to find their footing in this industry,” she said.
The Commissioner for Communications, Mr. Bola Olukoju described the production of the Ajuwaya Series as a major win for the state, noting that it signals the beginning of a new creative ecosystem in Kwara.
“For us in Kwara State, the creative industry is a vast ecosystem. During the filming of Ajuwaya, 1,211 people participated. Many benefited — including fashion designers, caterers, transporters, and artisans. If this continues regularly, it will further expand the creative economy. Every part of the economy benefited during the production,” she said.