In an industry as fast-evolving and competitive as Nollywood, access to practical training and mentorship can make the difference between raw talent and realized potential. At the heart of this mission is Xclusive Hideout, an annual hands-on film workshop founded by Nigerian filmmaker Todimu Adegoke. Now approaching its highly anticipated 2026 edition, the initiative is quickly becoming one of Nigeria’s most impactful grassroots platforms for nurturing emerging filmmakers.
Organized by Xclusive Filmworks, Adegoke’s film and creative development company, Xclusive Hideout offers immersive training in a wide array of filmmaking disciplines—including writing, directing, producing, cinematography, production design, and more. Each edition of the workshop spans three intensive days, combining theoretical instruction with live, on-set practicals designed to simulate real-world production environments.
The workshop’s origins trace back to 2021 in Kwara State, Nigeria, where the inaugural edition was held to enthusiastic reception. A second in-person edition followed in 2022, also in Kwara, before the program shifted temporarily to a virtual format in subsequent years due to logistical challenges and increased demand for accessibility across regions.
Now, the 2026 edition is set to return as a physical gathering in Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment capital. The upcoming workshop will feature facilitators from across the Nigerian film industry, including acclaimed producers, directors, and studio executives. The move to Lagos marks a strategic pivot designed to attract more participants and further connect emerging talent with the nation’s creative and commercial filmmaking hubs.
Speaking on the vision behind Xclusive Hideout, Adegoke said:
“I created this platform because I believe talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Xclusive Hideout is about bridging that gap—offering skill, exposure and belief to filmmakers who are ready to grow.”
Beyond training, Todimu Adegoke has also launched a sponsorship scheme under the program, personally committing to sponsor at least two participants annually to attend leading film summits, masterclasses, and labs across the country. These sponsored opportunities extend the learning journey for standout participants, helping them deepen their craft and forge connections within the wider industry.
For many, Xclusive Hideout offers more than just filmmaking knowledge—it represents a gateway into an industry where access, mentorship, and collaboration are often limited by geography and resources. With its return to a physical format and growing national recognition, the workshop is fast positioning itself as a grassroots incubator for the future of Nigerian cinema.
As Nollywood continues to rise in global relevance, initiatives like Xclusive Hideout are proving that the next generation of visionary storytellers may already be in training—not in the film schools of Hollywood, but in intensive workshops led by passionate creatives on home soil.
