Last Sunday, March 10, the world had a sneak preview of the future of Nollywood, which is technology at the State House, Marina, when Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, unveiled a film, Makemation, that is touted as Africa’s first feature film on Artificial Intelligence.
A bold and groundbreaking project, Makemation is said to be more than a movie; “it’s a movement at the intersection of technology, storytelling and social impact,” the producers said in a statement.
The high networth event attracted public officials, including three of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commissioners, Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy), Toke Benson-Awoyinka (Tourism, Arts, and Culture) and Olatubosun Alake (Innovation, Science & Technology), tech experts and Nollywood practitioners.
Directed by Michael Ama Psalmist Akinrogunde, the film brings together an eclectic mix of Nollywood and technology. It is a coming-of-age family drama that blends pop culture, AI, an engaging, high-tension and comic masterpiece.
The thought-provoking drama features a constellation of cast that includes Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Tomi Ojo, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, and Chioma Chukwuka. With exclusive distribution handled by Nile Entertainment, led by film entrepreneur Moses Babatope, Makemation is set to become a must-watch global blockbuster.
With teaser screenings already making waves at prestigious international events, including the 2024 Global AI Summit in Riyadh, Kenya Innovation Week, and an exclusive screening at the U.S. Consul General’s residence in Lagos; anticipation for the film is very high.
As the world gears up for the Global Inclusivity and AI Africa Conference, the film is positioning Nollywood at the forefront of global discussions on AI and digital transformation.
Nigerian audiences will be the first to experience the full cinematic debut when it premieres in Lagos on April 18, 2025, before hitting cinemas across Africa, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East in May 2025.
The film tells the inspiring story of a brilliant but underprivileged teenage girl who uses her intellect and determination to navigate the challenges of her world; a reflection of how young Africans today are leveraging technology to solve real-world problems.
Key themes explored include STEM education, digital skills and financial literacy, gender equality and inclusivity, and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
By weaving these themes into an engaging story, the film serves as a powerful tool for technology literacy, helping audiences understand AI’s potential impact on everyday life.
Speaking at the unveiling, Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed government’s commitment to investing in essential infrastructure enabling the creative sector to thrive.
He commended the producer and cast, assuring creatives of his willingness to collaborate on transformative ideas that project and develop the state’s creative industry.
“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.
“This is the most innovative industry. See this government as a partner in shaping the future we all desire,” he said.
Producer Akerele-Ogunsiji said the film explores themes such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality. She noted that Makemation examines the intersection of real life and AI.
She explained that the film also explores AI’s transformative power and its impact on the fourth industrial revolution.
“Viewers will see young people designing bras that detect breast cancer. We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own.
“Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few,” she said.
Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, highlighted the government’s efforts to empower creatives over the past six years. She said the ministry has trained nearly 20,000 young Nigerians in filmmaking, content creation, and other creative fields through strategic partnerships.
Institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Del York Academy have collaborated on these initiatives, she added.
She stressed that technology is key to the industry’s future, with Lagos positioning itself as a leader in digital innovation.
She noted that the government has provided grants to filmmakers to support high-quality productions capable of competing internationally.
“By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs within the industry,” she said.
“We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she added.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Ali Nuhu, commended Sanwo-Olu’s support for filmmakers.
“As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable.
“We now need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation,” he said.
Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, stressed the need to equip young Nigerians with responsible AI skills, advocating for collaborations between tech hubs, government, schools, and private organisations to expand AI education.
“This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use,” she said.
Livespot360 Co-Founder, Oluwadamilare Art Alade, highlighted AI’s role in preserving cultural heritage.
