Nigerian filmmaker and media entrepreneur Mo Abudu has unveiled a new cultural centre in London. The centre features a cinema dedicated to African films and Black storytelling.
According to AFP, the facility is known as EbonyLife Place London. It is located near the Houses of Parliament and will open to the public this weekend.
The centre represents another milestone in Abudu’s efforts to promote African cinema and creative talent internationally.
Speaking about the project, the 62-year-old media executive described the facility as a dream. She said it aims at giving African filmmakers greater visibility.
“It’s time to tell our own stories,” Abudu said.
“I want to showcase the best of who we are, celebrate who we are. Let them see us at our very best.”
Mo Abudu unveils African cultural hub
The two-storey facility features a cinema named Amani, a restaurant, a boutique, a bar and a lounge called Fẹhinti.
The boutique will showcase fashion from African designers and members of the diaspora. Meanwhile, the centre will also display artworks from across the continent.
Abudu explained that the project would eliminate the need for audiences to travel to Africa. Therefore, they could experience Nigerian cinema and culture in London.
The cinema will screen productions from different African countries alongside films celebrating Black actors and storytelling.
The opening programme will feature Nigerian filmmakers, including Nwani Orire and Ifeyinwa Arinze.
Abudu disclosed that the project was financed almost entirely by her media company.
She also expressed interest in establishing a similar cultural centre in Paris through possible partnerships.
The London facility builds on the success of EbonyLife Place, which opened in Lagos in 2019.
Abudu maintained that the new centre would welcome people of all nationalities and backgrounds. Access will be organised through a membership system.
