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Groundbreaking film blends Nollywood, AI, and innovation to showcase Nigeria’s digital future.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially unveiled Makemation, Africa’s first feature film on Artificial Intelligence (AI), setting a new milestone for the continent’s creative and technology industries.
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The unveiling, which took place on Sunday in Marina, Lagos, marks the beginning of a bold new era for Nollywood, where cinema meets cutting-edge AI technology to explore STEM education, digital skills, and financial literacy.
Makemation, produced by renowned human development expert, Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, is scheduled to make its cinematic debut in Lagos on Friday, April 18, 2025.
Sanwo-Olu Pledges More Support for Creative and Digital Industries
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the producer and cast for their innovation and vision, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to supporting groundbreaking projects that strengthen Lagos’ position as Africa’s creative hub.
“This production highlights the power of collaboration. We need more partnerships like this. Our role is to enable and create platforms for you to excel,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s dedication to providing essential infrastructure, training, and funding to help creatives thrive, adding that the film industry is a key driver of Lagos’ digital and economic growth.
“The creative sector is one of the most innovative industries. See this government as a partner in shaping the future we all desire,” Sanwo-Olu added.
The Future of AI and Film: Makemation as a Game-Changer
Producer Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji described Makemation as a bold narrative that merges entertainment with digital transformation, reinforcing the importance of African innovation in global technological advancement.
She highlighted how the film reflects the power of AI and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, demonstrating real-world applications such as:
- AI-powered breast cancer detection bras
- Financial literacy tools for young entrepreneurs
- AI-driven problem-solving in education and healthcare
“We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own. Makemation is about the future—our future. Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations,” she said.
The film features an all-star Nollywood cast, including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu, as well as tech experts and social media personalities, blending pop culture, AI research, and high-tension drama into a thought-provoking cinematic masterpiece.
Lagos’ Commitment to Digital and Creative Innovation
The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, detailed the government’s continued investment in creative capacity-building, highlighting the training of nearly 20,000 young Nigerians in filmmaking, content creation, and digital media through partnerships with institutions such as:
- EbonyLife Academy
- Gidi Creatives
- AMA Creative Academy
- Delyork Academy
She emphasized Lagos’ strategic vision to become a global leader in digital innovation and creative technology, noting recent high-level engagements in San Francisco with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami to strengthen digital partnerships.
“Our goal is to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy. Technology is the future of entertainment, and Lagos is leading the charge,” Benson-Awoyinka said.
She also revealed that the government has provided funding grants to support high-quality productions that can compete internationally.
“By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs and strengthening our economy,” she added.
Tech Leaders and Industry Experts Weigh In
Several key stakeholders in Nigeria’s tech and film industries praised the project’s innovation and impact:
Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, commended Sanwo-Olu’s leadership in supporting filmmakers:
“As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable. Now, we need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation.”
Olatomiwa Williams, Microsoft Country Manager for Nigeria, stressed the importance of AI education and responsible technology use:
“This initiative is inspiring. We must focus on AI education, ensuring that young Nigerians can leverage AI responsibly and ethically.”
Oluwadamilare Art Alade, Co-Founder of Livespot360, highlighted AI’s role in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage:
“AI is not just about automation—it can also preserve and amplify African storytelling for future generations.”
