Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has called on the Federal Government, Cross River State authorities, and private investors to revive the long-abandoned Tinapa Film Village, describing it as a wasted opportunity for Nigeria’s creative and tourism industries.
Speaking at a recent stakeholders’ forum in Lagos, Silva lamented that the once-promising project, built as part of the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort in Calabar, had fallen into disuse despite its potential to transform Nigeria’s film landscape and attract global productions.
“The Tinapa Film Village was designed to be a world-class creative hub a place where filmmakers, producers, and artists could collaborate, train, and showcase African stories to the world,” Silva said. “It is heartbreaking to see such massive investment lying dormant when Nigeria’s film industry is desperate for more infrastructure.”
Commissioned in 2007 under the administration of former Cross River State governor Donald Duke, the Tinapa project was envisioned as a centerpiece for entertainment, trade, and tourism in the region. The complex included a state-of-the-art film studio, sound stages, editing suites, and accommodation facilities for visiting artists. However, years of neglect, poor maintenance, and policy inconsistencies led to its decline.
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Silva stressed that the revival of Tinapa would create jobs, stimulate tourism, and boost the economy, particularly for young people seeking opportunities in the creative sector. She urged both the federal and state governments to collaborate with private partners to rehabilitate the facility and reposition it as a national centre for film production and training.
Industry stakeholders present at the event echoed her sentiments, noting that Nigeria’s creative economy projected to reach $13.6 billion by 2028 requires robust infrastructure to sustain growth. They suggested that a public-private partnership (PPP) model could ensure Tinapa’s sustainable management and profitability.
Film producers also highlighted that the revival of Tinapa could reduce the cost of shooting abroad and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global cinema production. “We have the talent, the stories, and the audience. What we lack are the facilities,” one producer remarked.
As Nollywood continues to expand globally, Silva’s appeal has reignited discussions about reviving dormant creative assets across the country. Many see Tinapa’s restoration not just as a state project, but as a symbolic investment in Nigeria’s cultural future.