Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has formalised a landmark collaboration between his Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Group and the Republic of Benin, aiming to strengthen cross-border creative development and advance African cinema. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the KAP Hub in Lagos following an official invitation from the Beninese Presidency to establish a strategic partnership focused on transforming the region’s audiovisual and film production ecosystem.
The agreement is structured around three key pillars: co-production of films that highlight authentic African stories for international audiences, youth training and capacity development in filmmaking and creative entrepreneurship, and the establishment of a world-class Film City in Ouidah, Benin Republic. KAP subsidiaries, including KAP Motion Pictures, the KAP Film & Television Academy, and the KAP Film Village & Resort in Oyo State, will provide technical and operational support.
The partnership follows recent visits by Afolayan and KAP executives to Benin, where discussions were held with government officials and creative stakeholders on boosting local content, enhancing technical expertise, and positioning Benin as a continental film hub. A high-level Beninese delegation, including presidential advisers on media, arts, and culture, travelled to Lagos to formalise the agreement and will tour KAP facilities in Lagos and Oyo State.
Afolayan described the collaboration as a defining moment for African cinema, highlighting the importance of regional partnerships in promoting African storytelling globally. Beninese officials also expressed optimism, noting the initiative’s potential to strengthen skills development and industry capacity. Both sides emphasised that the MoU represents the start of a long-term alliance to elevate standards in film production, creative education, and cultural expression across Africa.
