Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has expressed deep concern over the rising cost of diesel in Nigeria, revealing how the increasing price of fuel is putting serious financial pressure on businesses.
Speaking about the situation, the filmmaker admitted that the soaring cost of diesel has left him frustrated and worried about how to sustain some of his projects. According to him, the current price of diesel, which is around ₦1,500 per liter in some areas, has made it extremely difficult for business owners who rely heavily on generators for power.
Afolayan disclosed that one of his major ventures, KAP Village, has been particularly affected by the high energy costs. The creative hub, which serves as a film production and cultural center, requires a steady power supply to run its facilities, equipment, and daily operations.
He revealed that within just four to five weeks, the amount spent on diesel to keep the facility running reached an astonishing ₦11 million. For the filmmaker, the figure highlights the harsh reality many entrepreneurs are facing as energy costs continue to rise across the country.
According to Afolayan, the heavy reliance on diesel-powered generators has become unavoidable for many Nigerian businesses due to unstable electricity supply. As a result, the increasing fuel prices are forcing companies to spend a significant portion of their operating budgets simply to maintain power.
The filmmaker noted that the situation is not only affecting large production centers but also small businesses, studios, and creative entrepreneurs who are already dealing with other economic challenges.
Industry observers say the impact of rising energy costs could eventually affect Nigeria’s entertainment
sector as well, especially film production. Movie sets, editing studios, sound stages, and production facilities often depend on continuous power, which makes diesel a critical resource for many filmmakers.
Afolayan’s comments have sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians sharing similar experiences about how the high cost of diesel and other energy sources is affecting their livelihoods.
For the filmmaker, the issue goes beyond personal frustration. He believes the rising cost of energy is a serious challenge that could slow down business growth and creative development if sustainable solutions are not found.
Despite the difficulties, Afolayan continues to advocate for greater support for Nigeria’s creative industry, stressing that stable power supply and affordable energy remain key factors for long-term success in the sector.
