Earlier this year, Babatope stepped down as managing director of FilmOne Entertainment, a subsidiary of FilmHouse Group, which he co-founded with Kene Okwusa in 2012.
Moses Babatope, a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry, has announced the launch of Nile Media Entertainment Group, a new production and distribution studio dedicated to transforming African cinema. Babatope has assembled a female-led executive team for the venture.
Named after the River Nile, the company will prioritise cultural representation, industry excellence and sustainable practices, according to a report by Variety.
With over 20 years of experience, Babatope has produced and executive produced more than 40 Nollywood titles. He previously secured deals with Disney, Netflix, Prime Video and Warner Brothers through FilmOne Entertainment. As co-founder of FilmHouse Group and managing director of FilmOne Entertainment, Babatope has been instrumental in bringing African films to global audiences.
Biola Sokenu steps in as executive director and group COO, bringing more than two decades of experience as a financial controller and production accountant across the UK, Nigeria and the US. Previously, Sokenu led financial operations at Fleet River Productions Ltd, managing the production of Netflix’s The Diplomat Season Two. Her extensive background includes work on independent films and pivotal roles at global organisations such as AAA Entertainment, FilmOne Entertainment and the BBC.
Lolu Desalu joins as executive director, leveraging 18 years of experience in business strategy, brand building and strategic partnerships. Desalu’s career spans roles at NPower, Incisive Media, TimeInc. London, and most recently as chief marketing officer at FilmHouse Group.
Abimbola Roli Craig takes on the role of VP of Production. A lawyer-turned-filmmaker, 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 joins as VP of Nile X, the luxury cinema arm. Taylor brings 17 years of strategic communications experience as founder of Robert Taylor Media and co-founder of Crawl Africa, the first tourism app on the continent.
Nowekere Alexis C.I Segun-Ojo joins as GM of distribution and marketing. With more than 13 years in public relations and brand strategy, Segun-Ojo, as general manager at Nile Entertainment, shaped and executed the company’s strategic vision, contributing to the success of West Africa’s highest-grossing cinema marketing team, and executing high-profile campaigns for local and international films.
The Nile Group includes five subsidiaries: Nile Entertainment, which handles distribution for local and international markets; Nile Cinemas, providing luxury cinema experiences; Nile Motion Pictures, a production company dedicated to Nollywood films; Nile Studio Lab, a film village based in Nigeria; and Nile Foundation, the CSR arm dedicated to community development through film.
Speaking about the new venture, Babatope said: “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, normalise industry excellence and foster cultural exchange. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera. 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.”
