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Nigerian filmmaker and entrepreneur Sunday Esan has taken a significant step toward promoting indigenous storytelling with the unveiling of a new film village in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The facility, known as Okiki Films Village, is located in Idi Ori, Onidundu, within Akinyele Local Government Area. Spanning approximately seven acres, the site has been carefully developed to reflect traditional African settings, offering filmmakers a culturally rich environment for producing epic and heritage-driven content.
Designed with authenticity in mind, the village features mud houses, symbolic structures, and architectural elements that mirror ancient African communities. The initiative aims to provide a dedicated space where stories rooted in tradition, history, and spirituality can be brought to life on screen.
A Vision For Indigenous Storytelling
Speaking about the project, Sunday Esan emphasised the importance of preserving African narratives through film. He described the village as more than just a production location, noting that it serves as a cultural hub where filmmakers can explore and celebrate the continent’s heritage.
The unveiling represents a broader effort to strengthen Nollywood’s capacity for producing authentic epic films, particularly those that highlight African identity and historical experiences.
In a message shared on Instagram, Esan expressed his excitement about the project and its potential impact on the industry.
“A new chapter has begun for indigenous storytelling as Okiki unveils his Films Village — a sacred creative space rooted in African heritage and tradition.
“Sitting comfortably on a vast seven acres of land at Idi Ori, Onidundu Akinyele LGA, Ibadan. This traditional setting stands as a powerful tribute to our culture, where stories of kings, ancestors, spirits, and heritage can come alive in their purest form. Built with the essence of African identity, the village is more than a filming location; it is a cultural sanctuary designed to preserve and project the richness of our history through film.”
A Home For Epic Productions
The Okiki Films Village is expected to serve as a major hub for filmmakers interested in producing epic and culturally driven projects. By providing a ready-made traditional setting, the facility eliminates the need for extensive set construction, making it easier to achieve visual authenticity.
According to Esan, every detail within the village has been intentionally crafted to reflect the depth of African traditions and values.
“From mud houses to ancient symbols, every detail reflects the depth of our roots and the beauty of our traditions. OKIKI FILMS VILLAGE will serve as a home for epic productions, where filmmakers can tell authentic stories that resonate across generations.”
This approach is expected to encourage more filmmakers to explore indigenous themes and produce stories that highlight Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
Boosting Nollywood’s Cultural Identity
The launch of the film village comes at a time when Nollywood continues to expand its global reach. While the industry has gained international recognition, there has also been a growing call for more culturally grounded content that reflects African traditions and history.
By creating a space dedicated to such storytelling, Sunday Esan is contributing to efforts aimed at preserving cultural identity while also elevating the quality of local productions.
A New Era For African Cinema
The unveiling of Okiki Films Village signals what many see as a new phase for Nigerian cinema—one that places stronger emphasis on originality and cultural authenticity.
“As the drums of creativity echo across this sacred ground, a new era of African cinema rises—bold, original, and deeply rooted.
“The story of our people continues… now with a place to truly call home”.
With this development, filmmakers now have access to a purpose-built environment that not only supports production but also celebrates the richness of African storytelling.
The project stands as a reminder that beyond entertainment, film can serve as a powerful tool for preserving history, culture, and identity for future generations.
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