Nigerian Film Banner Labari Africa Launches With $3 Million Nollywood Fund (Exclusive)

The already vibrant Nigerian movie industry is getting a further boost with the launch of a new production company and, with it, a new $3 million film fund.

Labari Africa Productions has been launched by director Femi D. Ogunsanwo and financial sector execs Tunde Leye and Adedayo Amzat, the three having previously partnered on Nollywood romantic comedy. Finding Hubby and its sequel Finding Hubby 2both directed by Ogunsanwo.

The banner’s $3 million fund is aimed at a slate of Nollywood features while also supporting local filmmakers to develop and produce new films, providing mentorship and on-set training opportunities for emerging talent and supporting distribution and marketing efforts. Labari Africa claims that it’s the first in a series of funds to be raised in the coming years.

“We are excited to launch this new film fund and support a new wave of Nollywood filmmakers who tell the important stories that help position Africa favorably,” said Leye, who serves as managing partner of Labari Africa. “This $3 million fund will help provide the resources and support filmmakers need to bring their stories to life and showcase the incredible talent and creativity of the Nigerian film industry to the world.”

The first investment from the fund is the recently-wrapped heist-thriller The Lagos Job, produced and directed by Ogunsanwo. The film stars Joselyn Dumas, Baaj Adebule, Antar Laniyan, Omowunmi Dada, Ade Laoye, Bimbo Manuel, Frank Donga and Daniel K Daniel, with UK-based filmmaker Charles Oleghe having led cinematography. Future investments, according to Leye, will see the completion of at least one short film and a feature-length film script.

“From its humble beginnings, Nollywood has become a major contributor to the Nigerian economy, contributing 2.3 percent (about $600 million) to Nigeria’s GDP in 2021,” said Labari general partner Amzat. “We believe the time is right to bring expertise from the world of finance to bear on how our films are funded and ensure Nollywood’s continued growth and success. The fund will be open to established and emerging filmmakers, focusing on supporting projects that showcase Nigeria’s diverse culture and talent.”