Lagos State unveils Africa’s first AI feature film *Makemation*, highlighting innovation and technology in a transformative cinematic debut
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has unveiled Africa’s first feature film centred on Artificial Intelligence (AI), titled *Makemation*, on Sunday in Marina.
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The highly anticipated film, produced by human development expert Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, is set to make its cinematic debut on Friday, April 18, 2025, in Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the collaborative effort behind the film, highlighting its potential to push boundaries in the creative industry.
He commended the producer and cast for their innovative work and assured the creative community of the state government’s continued support in nurturing and transforming Lagos into a global hub for creativity.
Sanwo-Olu remarked, *“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 also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in vital infrastructure that will help the creative sector flourish.
*Makemation* explores themes like STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality, making it an important film in terms of both content and its underlying message.
Producer Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji explained that the film reflects the intersection of real life and AI, emphasising its transformative power in the fourth industrial revolution.
The film stars renowned actors such as Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu.
Akerele-Ogunsiji explained that one of the movie’s storylines involves young people designing bras that detect breast cancer, symbolising the shift from being mere consumers of innovation to creators of their own groundbreaking solutions.
*“Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few,”* she added.
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to empower creatives in the state over the past six years.
She shared that nearly 20,000 young Nigerians had been trained in filmmaking, content creation, and other creative fields through strategic partnerships with institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy.
Benson-Awoyinka also spoke about Lagos’ growing role in the global digital landscape, pointing to the state’s positioning as a leader in digital innovation.
She revealed that the government’s visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a significant step towards fostering strong digital partnerships.
*“We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,”* she said, adding that grants for filmmakers have been made available to support high-quality, international-standard productions.
Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, underscored the importance of equipping young Nigerians with responsible AI skills and encouraged more collaborations between tech hubs, government bodies, and educational institutions.
She expressed her enthusiasm for the *Makemation* initiative, stating that the film provides an opportunity to advance AI education in Nigeria.
Livespot360 Co-Founder, Oluwadamilare Art Alade, noted the critical role AI plays in preserving cultural heritage, further adding depth to the film’s thematic exploration.
*Makemation* is an unconventional blend of Nollywood stars, tech experts, public officials, and social media talents.
The film is described as a four-quadrant family drama, combining pop culture, research, and AI into an engaging, high-tension, and comedic masterpiece.
*Makemation* not only promises to be a cinematic marvel but also marks a significant milestone for Africa’s film industry in exploring AI’s role in society.
