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1) Ibrahim Chatta – Africhatta Film Village & Resort, Oyo State
Overview & Investment
Veteran Yoruba actor Ibrahim Chatta has made a groundbreaking investment in Nollywood through the establishment of Africhatta Film Village & Resort, located in Oyo State. Spanning over 74 acres of land, the multimillion-naira project was self-funded by Chatta during the COVID-19 lockdown. He raised part of the funds by offering personalized shout-outs and social media engagements, reportedly earning ₦300,000 per request. Chatta revealed that he received no loans or external financial help, making the project an independent venture that speaks volumes of his entrepreneurial spirit.
Design & Facilities
Africhatta blends tradition with innovation. The facility includes:
Traditional Yoruba architectural designs with thatched roofs and red earth-toned walls.
Landscaped surroundings perfect for historical and cultural film settings.
Horse stables and other livestock for use in epic films.
Purpose-built production studios with modern filming equipment.
Lodging and recreational facilities for cast and crew.
Production Hub
Africhatta has already become a production magnet. Major Nollywood works filmed here include:
The epic TV series “Eleran”
Movies like “Oko Iyabo” and “Ajoje”
Select scenes from “Iyalode”
The location is increasingly being used by top Yoruba filmmakers and A-list stars such as Iyabo Ojo, Toyin Abraham, and Lateef Adedimeji, making it a staple destination for historical, cultural, and village-style productions.
Educational Outreach
Chatta is also focused on talent development. The film village serves as a creative camp where aspiring filmmakers and actors can learn. Workshops, mentorship programs, and hands-on production training are conducted regularly, aiming to build a generation of skilled creatives who understand both the art and business of filmmaking.
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DELE ODULE – ILE ASA CULTURAL & FILM VILLAGE, OGUN STATE
Project Introduction
Yoruba film icon Dele Odule recently unveiled his highly anticipated film village named “Ile Asa Cultural & Film Village” in Ogun State. The name, which translates to “House of Culture,” reflects his commitment to reviving traditional values and Yoruba heritage through cinema.
Vision & Identity
Ile Asa is more than a film location—it’s a cultural institution. Dele Odule envisioned it as a space that promotes African identity and instills cultural pride in the next generation of filmmakers. The project was well-received in the Yoruba film community, with prominent actors such as Taiwo Hassan and Yinka Quadri commending the initiative.
Features & Community Role
Though still developing, the film village already includes:
Set pieces based on Yoruba folklore and mythology.
Multi-purpose halls for acting rehearsals and screenings.
Spaces for stage plays, traditional performances, and dance.
Community engagement centers for workshops and tourism.
The project aims to also double as a tourism destination where visitors can explore Yoruba lifestyle, food, and arts.
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🎯 Why Film Villages Matter in Nollywood
1. Controlled Filming Environments
They provide a stable and professional setting, avoiding the high cost and uncertainty of location shoots, especially in public spaces.
2. Cultural Preservation
Most film villages are modeled on Yoruba architecture, attire, and customs. This helps preserve and amplify Nigeria’s indigenous stories on a global scale.
3. Talent Development & Infrastructure
These facilities often serve as training grounds for budding actors, directors, and producers through structured workshops and mentorship programs.
4. Economic Growth & Decentralization
With most located outside Lagos, film villages create local jobs, increase tourism, and develop infrastructure in underserved areas.
5. Tourism & Community Engagement
These villages are evolving into cultural tourism destinations, contributing to both film and heritage tourism.
📝 Final Thoughts
The emergence of film villages in Nigeria marks a transformational phase in Nollywood. Ibrahim Chatta’s self-funded Africhatta Village stands as a testament to personal drive and innovation. Joke Silva’s academic model through Malete Film Village bridges the gap between theory and industry practice, while Dele Odule’s Ile Asa places heritage at the center of visual storytelling.
Together, these projects redefine what it means to be an actor in Nollywood—not just a performer but a builder, a mentor, and a cultural curator. As these film villages continue to grow, they will undoubtedly help shape a more sustainable, culturally rooted, and globally competitive Nollywood.
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