The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) has signed an agreement with a film production company, Lenscope Media, to rebuild and restore key historical monuments at the Museum of Traditional Nigerian Architecture (MOTNA) in Jos.
Described as “a significant milestone for the Nigerian film industry,” the project will transform the site into the new Jos Film Village and Film Training School, further solidifying Plateau State’s status as a hub for cinematic excellence.
The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement, which spans 20 years, was formally signed on Thursday in Abuja.
Representing Lenscope Media at the ceremony, the MD/CEO Makama Sani Mu’azu, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to leveraging its extensive industry expertise to restore and repurpose heritage sites for creative use.
The contract signing was overseen by Barrister Babatunde Adebiyi, while the Director-General of NCMM, Mr. Olugbile Holloway, expressed confidence in Lenscope Media’s ability to breathe new life into the project.
As part of the redevelopment, Lenscope Media will rebuild iconic monuments, including the Kano City Wall, the Zaria Friday Mosque, and the Katsina Palace, which had once served as cinematic backdrops for both Nigerian and international productions.
These historical structures will now be integrated into the Jos Film Village, enhancing the authenticity of film sets while preserving cultural heritage.
Beyond film production, the new Jos Film Village will feature an Arewa Cafeteria, offering a rich selection of Northern Nigerian cuisines, as well as equestrian stables for specialised film props, expanding the facility’s appeal to filmmakers and tourists alike.
With an initial investment of ₦250 million, the project is set to boost the local economy, create employment opportunities for thousands of young talents, and strengthen Plateau State’s position as a key destination for filmmakers across Africa.
Once operational, the Jos Film Village is expected to enhance the quality of film production, promote cultural heritage, and stimulate tourism development in Nigeria.
