Kunle Afolayan calls for help over business struggles

Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has expressed frustration over the rising cost of diesel in the country, describing the situation as unsustainable for businesses.

The award-winning director made the remark in a video shared online, revealing that he spent about ₦11 million on diesel within four to five weeks to power operations at KAP Village, one of his business ventures.

According to Afolayan, the increasing price of diesel—now estimated at about ₦1,500 per litre—has made it extremely difficult to manage operational expenses.

“I have been sad because I can’t cope with ₦1,500 per litre for diesel. In one of the businesses that I run, KAP Village, I spent ₦11 million in just four to five weeks on diesel,” he said.

The filmmaker explained that although the facility has solar power installed, running the business remains expensive due to the high energy demands and the persistent reliance on generators.

He noted that the challenge is even more pronounced in Lagos, where many businesses depend on alternative power sources because of inconsistent electricity supply.

Afolayan also pointed out that the recent increase in diesel prices—from about ₦1,000 to over ₦1,500 per litre—has further worsened the situation, especially for businesses that purchase fuel on credit and settle payments later.

Appealing for support, the filmmaker urged financial institutions and government agencies to provide accessible loans that would enable businesses to upgrade their solar energy systems and reduce dependence on diesel.