Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, recently paid a visit to the soon-to-be-completed Kwara Sugar Film Factory, showcasing the state’s ambitious venture into the world of cinema and creative arts.
The factory, which is part of the administration’s strategic initiatives, is set to reshape Kwara’s economy, offering job opportunities, youth empowerment, and an enhanced standard of living, according to a statement by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye.
Named after the iconic Tate and Lyle Sugar Factory, which stood as a testament to the region’s history until its collapse in the 1990s, this project reflects Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to preserving the state’s heritage while pushing for innovation.
The construction of the Kwara Sugar Film Factory is funded by a bond secured by the state in 2021, demonstrating a commitment to investing in the creative industry. Governor AbdulRazaq explained that the aim is to position Kwara as a key player in West Africa’s movie production and creative industry, rivalling the likes of Hollywood and Bollywood.
In an interview at the project site, the Governor emphasised the need for improved production quality in Nollywood to compete on the global stage. He stated, “Our huge investment in the creative industry is to expand the economic base of the state and deepen the creative industry. That’s the way to go. We want to make this state a destination for high-quality movie production.”
The Governor expressed satisfaction with the progress made and hopes the factory will be operational in the coming months. He added, “Very soon, we will start film production in the state, and people will be coming in from outside the state to do the last-mile production of their movies in the state. And that means a great boost to the economy.”
The Kwara Sugar Film Factory, which represents just the first phase of the larger vision, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including studios, makeup rooms, training facilities, and co-working offices. This project is closely linked with other initiatives like the innovation hub, international conference centre, and garment factory, all aimed at fostering a thriving local economy centred around creative industry, innovation, and driven by the youth.
As the project nears completion, Governor AbdulRazaq has extended an open invitation to film producers and stakeholders in the creative industry, emphasising the state’s commitment to partnerships and collaboration.
Kwara State is poised to emerge as a prominent player in West Africa’s creative landscape, and the Kwara Sugar Film Factory stands as a testament to this visionary endeavour.