The KAP Film & Television Academy has celebrated a major milestone with the Graduation Ceremony of its Filmmaking Residency Programme, held in partnership with the Oyo State Government. The event took place on Wednesday at the scenic KAP Film Village & Resort in Igbojaye, marking a proud moment for 165 emerging filmmakers drawn from all 33 local government areas of Oyo State.

The participants, who completed an intensive 10-day filmmaking residency, received practical, hands-on training across core aspects of film production — screenwriting, directing, cinematography, producing, editing, and sound design. Supported by SONY and Kontakt Pro Nigeria, the initiative was designed to build a new generation of creative professionals with both artistic and technical competence.

One of the event’s highlights was the screening of eight short films created by the students during the residency. Each production reflected the participants’ storytelling depth, teamwork, and vivid representation of local culture — earning enthusiastic applause from guests, faculty members, and industry veterans.

Representing Governor Seyi Makinde, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, praised the collaboration as a milestone for Oyo State’s cultural and creative economy.

“This programme stands as a significant economic and cultural development for our state,” he said. “We commend Kunle Afolayan and his team for establishing a creative ecosystem that promotes film, talent, and tourism in Oyo State. The students’ work is a true representation of Oyo’s cultural pride and creative excellence.”



Founder of KAP Film & Television Academy, filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, expressed gratitude to the state government for its partnership and commitment to youth empowerment. He also urged the graduating filmmakers to remain disciplined, innovative, and rooted in their cultural identity.

“Attention to detail and commitment to creativity are non-negotiable for great filmmakers,” Afolayan said. “These students have shown that talent, when nurtured in the right environment, can flourish into excellence. I encourage them to keep making films together and to continue telling our stories with pride.”

The graduates also received professional feedback from distinguished faculty members and industry icons including Tunde Kelani, Joke Silva, Kemi Adesoye, Rotimi Fakunle, and Lola Maja, all of whom commended their storytelling growth and collaborative spirit.

Adding a royal touch to the celebration, the Oluigbo of Igbojaye, Oba Zaccheus Olatunji Oyeleke Alobaloke III, lauded the success of the programme, describing it as a fulfillment of the vision behind establishing the KAP Film Village & Resort in his community.

The event not only marked the graduation of a new class of filmmakers but also underscored Oyo State’s growing role as a creative hub, where film, culture, and community development intersect.