Renowned filmmaker and entrepreneur, Kunle Afolayan, has been honoured with the prestigious Tourism Entrepreneur of the Year award at the International Tourism Investment Summit (#ITSOyoState2025) held in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The three-day event, which ran from July 22 to 24, attracted major stakeholders across Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sectors — including government representatives, industry investors, creatives, and developers. The summit served as a key platform to highlight Oyo State’s diverse tourism assets, with a focus on eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and destination development.
Afolayan, the founder and CEO of KAP Film Village & Resort, was celebrated during the Governor’s Dinner and Tourism Awards Night for his outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s creative and tourism industries. His multi-purpose facility located in Igbojaye, Oyo State, is widely recognized for integrating film production, hospitality, and cultural heritage into a vibrant tourism destination.
In his remarks, Afolayan described the recognition as a “deeply humbling and motivating honour,” emphasizing the role of the KAP team in turning a vision into a cultural landmark. “This award is not just about me. It represents years of dedication from a committed team determined to promote our heritage and creativity,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde; Hon. Akinwale Akinwole (Wolekanle), Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission; Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal; National Theatre CEO Tola Akerele; and the State Ministry of Tourism for their support in advancing tourism and the creative economy.
With this latest recognition, KAP Film Village & Resort continues to position itself as a model for cultural tourism and a hub for African storytelling. “You don’t have to travel abroad to experience peace, beauty, or heritage,” Afolayan said. “KAP offers that right here in Nigeria.”
The summit reaffirmed Oyo State’s commitment to unlocking the potential of tourism as a driver of economic growth and cultural pride.
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