2 weeks ago
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Earlier in the week, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq clocked 65 and many accolades rolled in for the gentleman governor. Among the many congratulatory messages and advertorials, one stood out by Seun Oloketuyi, the founder of Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards.
Oloketuyi had described the governor as the architect of modern Nigerian filmmaking, and many stakeholders in the sector have agreed to this submission. Their reason for agreeing ranges, but one central reason is the Sugar Film Factory, a superlative initiative by the good governor.
In November 2024, Nollywood titans all gathered in Ilorin, Kwara State for the 16th Best of Nollywood Awards (BON Awards) and to witness the largesse of the governor to Nollywood. A landmark achievement for the governor’s administration, the Sugar Film Factory, is a testament to his commitment to positioning Kwara as a premier hub for movie production in West Africa.
In an opinion piece celebrating the Governor at 65, Oloketuyi said “At 65 years old, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is not just governing Kwara State—he is reshaping Nigeria’s creative industry.
“As someone deeply entrenched in Nigeria’s film industry, I have witnessed the challenges filmmakers face, from inadequate infrastructure to limited investment in creative ventures. Governor AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership in establishing the Sugar Film Factory has given me a renewed sense of admiration for his dedication to Nollywood and the broader creative economy.
“His investment in the creative sector is more than just political rhetoric—it is a tangible, strategic move to empower filmmakers, create jobs, and establish Kwara as a cinematic powerhouse. The governor understands the potential of the film industry to drive economic growth and cultural influence, and his administration is actively laying the groundwork for a thriving entertainment hub.
“Located in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Sugar Film Factory is a state-of-the-art facility designed to elevate film, television, and photography production in Nigeria. With world-class infrastructure and cutting-edge technology, the studio provides a dedicated space for filmmakers, content creators, and media professionals to bring their visions to life.”
Listing some of the features that make the studio a film destination, he added, “Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision for the Sugar Film Factory extends beyond just building infrastructure. His administration has ensured that the facility contributes significantly to the state’s creative economy.
“The full completion of the Sugar Film Factory is a major milestone in Kwara’s creative sector. The facility meets international production standards, making it an attractive destination for Nollywood and global filmmakers.
“The film industry is a major employer worldwide, and the Sugar Film Factory is playing its part in job creation. The facility has already generated over 100 direct jobs and more than 500 indirect jobs, benefiting actors, directors, cinematographers, set designers, and production crews.
“The 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards was successfully hosted at the Sugar Film Factory, attracting top filmmakers, actors, and investors to Kwara State. This event reinforced Kwara’s status as a leading location for entertainment and boosted tourism and business opportunities in the region.
“The studio has already begun producing innovative content, including the “Dancinematic Universe”—a pioneering project that blends music videos with cinematic storytelling through dance. This unique approach is setting a new standard in African filmmaking.
“Traditionally, Kwara’s economy has relied heavily on civil service employment. However, Governor AbdulRazaq’s investment in the creative industry is diversifying the state’s economic landscape, attracting investors, talent, and new business opportunities.
“Recognising the need for continuous skill development, the Sugar Film Factory features training rooms where young filmmakers can hone their craft. Workshops, masterclasses, and mentoring programs ensure that Kwara remains at the forefront of creative innovation.
“With co-working spaces, modern equipment, and a high-tech production environment, the facility encourages partnerships between filmmakers, producers, and media entrepreneurs. This collaborative ecosystem makes Kwara an ideal destination for major film projects.”
For anyone with clarity of vision, it is evident that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s strategic vision and leadership have positioned Kwara State as a powerhouse in the Nigerian film industry. His bold investments in creative infrastructure are shaping the future of Nollywood and setting a new benchmark for film production in Africa.
Concluding, Oloketuyi stated, “At 65 years old, he is not just leading a state—he is pioneering a movement that will leave a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s entertainment and creative economy. With the Sugar Film Factory, Kwara is showing the way forward, proving that with the right investment, Nigeria can compete on a global stage in film and television production.”
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