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Nile Media Entertainment Group: A new dawn for African cinema
A visionary leap in African storytelling
In a groundbreaking move, veteran Nigerian filmmaker Moses Babatope has launched the Nile Media Entertainment Group, a new production and distribution studio poised to revolutionize African cinema. Named after the iconic River Nile, this venture aims to elevate cultural representation, industry excellence, and sustainable practices within the African film industry.
A multifaceted approach to cinema
The Nile Group is structured into five distinct subsidiaries, each with a unique focus:
- Nile Entertainment: This arm handles distribution across local and international markets, ensuring African films reach a global audience.
- Nile Cinemas: Offering luxury cinema experiences, this subsidiary aims to redefine movie-going in Africa.
- Nile Motion Pictures: Dedicated to producing high-quality Nollywood films, this division is set to become a powerhouse in African filmmaking.
- Nile Studio Lab: A film village in Nigeria, providing state-of-the-art facilities for filmmakers.
- Nile Foundation: The CSR arm focused on community development through film, fostering a deeper connection between cinema and society.
A powerhouse team of female leaders
Babatope has assembled a formidable, female-led executive team to drive this ambitious project forward:
Biola Sokenu: Executive director and group COO
With over two decades of experience as a financial controller and production accountant across the U.K., Nigeria, and the U.S., Biola Sokenu steps in as the executive director and group COO. Her previous role at Fleet River Productions Ltd saw her managing the production of Netflix’s “The Diplomat” Season 2. Sokenu’s extensive background includes pivotal roles at global organizations such as AAA Entertainment, FilmOne Entertainment, and the BBC.
Lolu Desalu: Executive director
Lolu Desalu brings 18 years of experience in business strategy, brand building, and strategic partnerships. Her career spans roles at NPower, Incisive Media, TimeInc. London, and most recently as chief marketing officer at Filmhouse Group.
Abimbola Roli Craig: VP production
A lawyer-turned-filmmaker, Abimbola Roli Craig previously headed production at NdaniTV, where she co-produced hits like “Sugar Rush” and “Real Housewives of Lagos”. Her Netflix production “Glamour Girls” became the first Nigerian film to reach the global top 10 list.
Bukky George Taylor: VP of Nile X
Bukky George Taylor, with 17 years of strategic communications experience, joins as VP of Nile X, the luxury cinema arm. She is the founder of Robert Taylor Media and co-founder of Crawl Africa, the first tourism app on the continent.
Nowekere Alexis C.I Segun-Ojo: GM of distribution and marketing
With over 13 years in public relations and brand strategy, Nowekere Alexis C.I Segun-Ojo rounds out the team as GM of distribution and marketing. As general manager at Nile Entertainment, she has shaped and executed the company’s strategic vision, contributing to the success of West Africa’s highest-grossing cinema marketing team.
A vision for the future
“Our vision for Nile Media Entertainment Group is to be the beacon of African storytelling, illuminating hearts and minds across the globe with captivating films that celebrate diversity, inspire empathy, normalize industry excellence, and foster cultural exchange,” Babatope said. “Through our commitment to creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity, we aim to create films that entertain, enlighten, and empower audiences of all backgrounds. By championing diverse voices and perspectives, we seek to build bridges, spark dialogue, and cultivate a more compassionate and connected world.”
A legacy of excellence
With over 20 years of experience, Babatope has produced and executive produced more than 40 Nollywood titles. His previous work with FilmOne Entertainment saw him securing deals with major players like Disney, Netflix, Prime Video, and Warner Brothers.
The impact on global cinema
The launch of Nile Media Entertainment Group marks a significant milestone in the evolution of African cinema. By focusing on high-quality production, innovative distribution, and luxury cinema experiences, the company is set to transform how African stories are told and consumed worldwide. This initiative not only promises to elevate the African film industry but also to foster a deeper appreciation for African culture and storytelling on a global scale.
For cinema enthusiasts, this is an exciting time to witness the rise of a new era in African filmmaking. The Nile Media Entertainment Group is not just a company; it is a movement that aims to reshape the narrative and bring African stories to the forefront of global cinema.
