Lagos Unveils Africa’s First AI-Driven Feature Film Makemation
Lagos State has launched Makemation, Africa’s first feature film powered by artificial intelligence. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu introduced the groundbreaking project, produced by human development expert Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, at an unveiling event in Marina. The film is set to premiere in Lagos on April 18.
Sanwo-Olu praised the film’s creative team and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering innovation in the entertainment industry. “This production highlights the power of collaboration,” he said. “We need more partnerships like this. Our role as a government is to enable and create platforms for creatives to excel.”
The governor also emphasized Lagos State’s investment in infrastructure to support the creative economy, positioning the city as a hub for digital and artistic talent.
Makemation: A Story of Innovation and AI
Producer Akerele-Ogunsiji described Makemation as a film that explores artificial intelligence’s role in society, focusing on STEM education, financial literacy, and gender equality.
“Viewers will see young people designing AI-powered bras capable of detecting breast cancer,” she said. “We must move beyond being mere consumers of technology and start building our own innovations.”
The film tells the inspiring story of a young girl from a low-income community in Lagos. Despite facing numerous challenges, she harnesses the power of AI to create change. Combining entertainment with a message of hope, Makemation showcases how young Africans, especially girls, are using technology to tackle pressing social issues.
The movie stars renowned Nollywood actors such as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu. It explores the intersection of human experience and artificial intelligence in a thought-provoking and humorous way.
Lagos State’s Commitment to the Creative Industry
Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, highlighted the government’s ongoing support for the entertainment sector. Over the past six years, nearly 20,000 young Nigerians have received training in filmmaking, content creation, and other creative disciplines through partnerships with institutions like EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy.
“Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships,” Benson-Awoyinka said. “Lagos is positioning itself as a leader in digital innovation.”
She also noted the state’s investment in local filmmakers through grants aimed at producing globally competitive films.
AI’s Role in Shaping Africa’s Future
Ali Nuhu, Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation and a cast member of Makemation, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s support for Nollywood and urged more media engagement to amplify the film’s impact.
Microsoft’s Nigeria Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, stressed the importance of equipping young Nigerians with responsible AI skills, while Oluwadamilare Art Alade, co-founder of Livespot360, highlighted AI’s potential to preserve Africa’s cultural heritage.
Described as a “four-quadrant family drama,” Makemation blends pop culture, research, and artificial intelligence into a compelling, high-energy narrative. The film not only aims to entertain but also to spark important discussions on AI’s future in Africa.
