By Ayo Onikoyi

Veteran film and entertainment executive Moses Babatope has announced the launch of his media and entertainment company, The Nile Media Entertainment Group.

With over 20 years of experience in film exhibition, production, distribution, marketing, and cinema operations management, gained from markets including the United Kingdom and Nigeria, Babatope is a seasoned industry expert.

The Nile Media Entertainment Group will focus on film production, distribution, and cinema. Babatope plans to expand the industry exponentially by embracing innovation, disruption, and creating new revenue streams.

Throughout his illustrious career, Babatope has been a key figure in the global distribution of blockbuster films. Under his leadership, major international distribution deals have been secured with industry giants like Disney, Warner Brothers, Sony, Netflix, and Prime Video. As the co-founder of FilmHouse Group and former Managing Director of FilmOne Limited, he played a pivotal role in distributing Nigerian blockbuster films globally, such as “A Tribe Called Judah,” “Battle on Buka Street,” and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.” His collaborations with Hollywood studios have brought hits like “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” “Aquaman,” “Barbie,” “Black Adam,” “Spiderman: No Way Home,” “Venom 2,” and “The Woman King” to screens across West Africa.

Babatope has also produced over 40 of Nollywood’s biggest titles, significantly contributing to the industry’s growth and global recognition.

With the Nile Group, operations will go through 5 different entities: Nile Entertainment, Nile Cinemas, Nile Motion Pictures, Nile Studio Lab, and Nile Foundation. These companies aim to transform the industry and create substantial economic impact.

“We are taking a grand approach to transform the industry. Our vision is to celebrate and amplify African stories globally, create more revenue streams, and deliver exceptional returns for our investors,” Babatope stated.

Nile Entertainment will manage distribution across Africa and internationally, ensuring that African stories reach global audiences. Launching strongly with the highly anticipated third installment of Omoni Oboli’s “Wives on Strike 3,” Nile Entertainment has secured local and international distribution rights for over 31 titles.

Babatope also announced that the company has acquired global rights for an impressive slate of productions, including Linda Ikeji’s true crime film “The Night of June 7” directed by Toka McBaror, the GenZ-themed action/adventure “The Artefact” by Tolu Awobiyi, the intense drama “Banke” starring Daniel Etim Effiong and Bolaji Ogunmola produced by Emma Isikaku, the documentary series “Is It Your Money” by Chude Jideonwo, “Afrobeats Backstory Season 2” by Ayo Shonnaiya, and the faith-based documentary series “The Wives” directed by Orire Nwani.

Nile Cinemas will lead cinema management, handling operations for THC Cinemas Ifako-Ijaiye and Royal Roots Cinemas Ikota, with more locations to come. Additionally, Nile Screens will offer cinema operations services for the new screening initiative, Filmhub.

Nile X, in partnership with one of Nigeria’s leading cinema chains, will introduce private luxury pods, providing a luxurious and exclusive experience for movie lovers.

Nile Motion Pictures will develop and produce a wide range of original content. Notable projects include an untitled romantic drama with FilmTrybe, the action-thriller “The Porters” produced with Boxonia Blueprint Productions, and the faith-based drama “Oluwaloni” in partnership with Shutterspeed Projects.

Production partnerships include collaborations with Ifedayo Agoro, a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and digital storyteller.

Nile Studio Lab focuses on producing high-quality films and TV series for both in-house projects and third-party productions. A recent agreement with an International Studio Consortium has been reached.

Nile Foundation will drive community development initiatives through masterclasses for filmmakers, sponsoring small projects, and discovering new talents in Africa. By investing in local talent and supporting grassroots projects, Nile Foundation aims to foster growth in the industry.

“With The Nile Group, we are set not just to participate in the industry but to lead and innovate. Our goal is to celebrate African stories and bring them to the global stage in the most spectacular ways,” Babatope stated.