Sanwo-Olu Performs Groundbreaking of $100m Lagos Film City, Says Facility Will Promote Nation’s Diversity

Segun James

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, said the proposed Lagos Film City would amplify the voices of the country’s diverse communities and showcase the industry on a global scale.

Sanwo-Olu, made the remark during the groundbreaking of the $100 million film city covering a land area of 100 hectares of land tagged, ‘Lagos Film City’ located in Ejirin, Epe Local Government area of the State.

The Film City which proposes to be the biggest in Africa would enhance the economic growth and cultural development of Lagos State.
The project is a Private-Public Partnership towards creating a thriving and vibrant film industry that would captivate audiences worldwide.

The Lagos State Government in collaboration with the Del-York Group, under the visionary leadership of Linus Idahosa, celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lagos Film City.

Sanwo-Olu said: “Today, we embark on a journey that will redefine the landscape of the film industry in Lagos State. As we break the ground for this $100 million film city covering a land area of 100 hectares of land and which will be executed on the private-public partnership model, we are laying the foundation for a creative hub that will serve as a catalyst for innovation, talent discovery, and storytelling excellence.

“This film city will be a testament to our commitment to nurturing the arts and supporting the dreams of aspiring filmmakers, actors, and technicians.”

The governor added: “The film industry has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together. It has the ability to inspire, entertain, and educate.
“Through the magic of cinema, we can showcase the rich cultural heritage of Lagos State, tell stories that reflect our shared experiences, and amplify the voices of our diverse communities.

“Furthermore, the First Film City in Lagos State will create numerous job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and attract investment.
“It will be a hub for film production, post-production, visual effects, and all the ancillary services that support the filmmaking process. We envision a film city that is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, sound stages, editing suites, production offices, and everything necessary to bring the magic of the silver screen to life.”

Continuing, he said: “This film city is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about the people who will walk through its doors and breathe life into its spaces. It is about the dreams that will be realised, the stories that will be told, and the impact that will be made.

“This film city will serve as a canvas for these stories, providing a platform for our talented artists to shine on both local and global stages.

“Our creative community is the beating heart of this film city, and we are committed to providing them with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The Governor canvassed for a Film City that would be vibrant and where Lagos State becomes a symbol of excellence, creativity, and unity.

He noted, “As we embark on this journey together, I call upon all stakeholders – filmmakers, investors, educators, and the community at large – to join hands and contribute towards the success of this film city.

“Let us work together to build an ecosystem that nurtures creativity, fosters collaboration, and empowers our artists to push the boundaries of their craft.”
While congratulating the host community, Sanwo-Olu said, “I have no doubt in my mind that you will give all the necessary cooperation and support to the contractors and all the people who will be working on the site to make this project a reality.”

Speaking on behalf of the host community, His Royal Highness, Oba Rafiu Ishola Babatunde Balogun, expressed joy over the choice of the State Government to site the City in Ejirin, saying “I would ever be grateful for your magnanimity after a long waiting.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Founder of Del-York Group, Linus Idahosa, who conceived the idea three years ago revealed that the venture is more than a catalyst for creative mastery, economic vibrancy, and job generation; but will serve as the set of keys that will unlock an extraordinary future for the state.

He stated that the collaboration between the Lagos Film City and the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is expected to generate substantial economic impact. 

Idahosa averred that with an anticipated influx of international visitors, it’s projected that the tourism sector alone would contribute significantly to the local economy, potentially boosting revenue by over 20 per cent in the coming years.

According to him, “Collaboration is the heartbeat of creativity. With the Lagos Film City, we will unite diverse cultures in a Sanwo-Olu, shared creative vision, serving as a melting pot where the global creative community converges and collaborates. When we come together, work in unison, and craft stories together, we don’t just make art; we make history. Lagos has the potential to not only be a hub but also the epicenter of the global entertainment industry.

“Africa, with its vast cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and myriad untold stories, has always sought a stage to display its creative excellence. Lagos Film City stands as that stage for the continent’s flourishing film sector. 

“A synergistic confluence of Del-York University, Kebulania’s Studio City, and Kebulania Theme Park isn’t merely about bricks and mortar; it’s a citadel fostering a vibrant film ecosystem. From ultra-modern sound stages to post-production facilities, movie sets, workshops, and a contemporary theme park, this project aims to empower local and international talents and stimulate economic growth across the country and sub-region.”