Adeola Olafikun is a dynamic leader, serial entrepreneur, and Nollywood insider dedicated to serving God and humanity. As Founder and President of Handy Innovations Foundation, she drives initiatives that positively impact communities. By day, she’s Executive Creative Producer at Lydia Becca Films, bringing compelling stories to life on screen. With a passion for empowering others, she’s also the Founder and Chief Executive Director of Handy Innovations Vocational Institute. Adeola’s multifaceted expertise spans entrepreneurship, filmmaking, and community development, inspiring and empowering those around her.
What inspired you to become a film producer, and why Nollywood specifically?
I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling, especially stories that reflect the depth, struggles, and complexities of our everyday lives. Nollywood felt like home to me because it’s raw, expressive, and unapologetically Nigerian. I wanted to be part of a movement that not only entertains but also reflects truth and inspires change. Producing films gives me the opportunity to shape narratives that matter.
Tell us about your debut project—what is it about, and what message are you hoping to pass across?
My debut film is titled Twisted Mind. It’s a gripping family drama that dives into themes of broken trust, blackmail, and betrayal. Beyond the surface drama, the film questions what happens when the people closest to us become our biggest threats. It also explores the ripple effects of silence, manipulation, and the unspoken wounds within families. At its core, it’s a call to confront secrets, seek healing, and protect the ones we love.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while producing your first film?
One of the toughest challenges was securing a stable location. We had to adapt quickly when promised locations fell through at the last minute. Like many
producers, I also faced the pressure of limited resources—working with time constraints and ensuring that cast and crew had what they needed to deliver their best despite a modest budget.
How did you put your production team together—cast, crew, and other collaborators?
I built the team around passion and trust. I prioritized people who believed in the story and were willing to give their all. I see every crew member as the heartbeat of my production—without them, nothing moves. From casting to directing, I worked with creatives who aligned with the vision and were eager to grow with the project.
Budgeting is often a hurdle for new producers.
How did you fund your project, and what financial lessons did you learn?
I self-funded Twisted Mind, and that alone came with a lot of lessons. I learned to stretch every naira, make sacrifices, and find creative solutions when funds were low. The experience taught me how to plan better, prioritize essentials, and prepare for unexpected expenses. It’s made me more financially disciplined and strategic for future projects.
Were there any unexpected moments on set that taught you something important about filmmaking?
Absolutely. Every day on set was a classroom. One moment that stood out was watching how quickly tensions can rise under pressure and how essential communication is to maintaining peace. It reminded me that beyond talent, emotional intelligence and teamwork are key ingredients to a successful shoot.
Nollywood is known for its fast-paced production style. How did you manage time and pressure on your first shoot?
Had to be very intentional with planning. I worked closely with my assistant director to create a tight shooting schedule, but I also made room for flexibility. The pressure was real, but staying calm and solution-focused helped me lead the team even in moments of chaos.
Who are some Nollywood producers or filmmakers that you look up to, and why?
I deeply admire Saheed Apanpa for his visionary and humble approach to storytelling, Ruth Kadiri for her consistency and raw emotional delivery, and Funke Akindele for her ability to blend comedy, drama, and real-life issues while scaling new heights in the industry. They all inspire me to push boundaries.
What platforms or distribution channels are you targeting for your film—cinema, YouTube, Netflix, etc.?
I am currently targeting YouTube and DSTV, but I’m hopeful will go further to cinemas, prime, and even Netflix.
The goal is to keep elevating the standard until we’re reaching global platforms.
What advice would you give to other aspiring producers who want to break into Nollywood?
Start with what you have and where you are. Don’t wait for perfect funding, a perfect crew or getting your content on large distribution platform. Build as you grow. Tell the stories that matter to you, and don’t be afraid of failure—it’s part of the process. Most importantly, stay humble and treat everyone on your team with dignity and respect.
How do you relax?
When I’m not on set, I’m running my nonprofit, Handy Innovations Foundation. It’s my second heartbeat. Helping others, training women and youth, and driving community change gives me peace and purpose. That’s how I recharge—by giving back.
Talk about family support.
My immediate family has been incredibly supportive. They’ve stood by me emotionally and otherwise. Their belief in me has helped me stay grounded, especially during tough production days. Knowing I have their backing fuels my resilience.