Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has introduced Makemation, Africa’s first artificial intelligence-driven feature film, to a select audience in Marina.
The film, produced by human development expert Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, is set for its cinematic debut in Lagos on Friday, April 18.
At the unveiling, Sanwo-Olu commended the film’s creative team, pledging his administration’s continuous support for transformative projects that uplift Lagos’ creative sector.
He emphasized the government’s investment in infrastructure that fosters artistic innovation.
“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,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “This is the most innovative industry. See this government as a partner in shaping the future we all desire.”
The film’s producer, Akerele-Ogunsiji,, explained that Makemation explores critical themes such as STEM education, digital literacy, financial empowerment, and gender equality.
Featuring renowned Nollywood actors Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu, the film delves into the fusion of artificial intelligence with real-life experiences.
She highlighted its role in showcasing Nigeria’s potential for technological innovation.
“Viewers will see young people designing bras that detect breast cancer. We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own,” she said. “Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few.”
Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, underlined the government’s strategic initiatives over the last six years to empower creatives.
She revealed that close to 20,000 young Nigerians have received training in filmmaking, content creation, and related fields through partnerships with institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy.
She also pointed to Lagos’ growing position as a hub for digital innovation, highlighting recent government efforts to foster international tech collaborations.
“Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships,” she said. “We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy.”
Benson-Awoyinka further noted the state’s financial support for filmmakers, ensuring they can produce globally competitive content while creating employment opportunities within the industry.
“By investing in local storytelling, we ensure our narratives reach global audiences while creating jobs within the industry,” she added.
Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation and a cast member of Makemation, Ali Nuhu, applauded Governor Sanwo-Olu’s backing of the film industry.
“As part of the cast, I am excited about this project. The governor’s support is commendable,” Nuhu remarked. “We now need the media’s backing to create buzz around this innovation.”
Also present was Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, who emphasized the importance of equipping Nigerian youths with responsible AI knowledge.
She advocated for collaborative efforts among tech hubs, educational institutions, government agencies, and private sector players to expand AI education.
“This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use,” she stated.
Highlighting the film’s broader significance, Livespot360 Co-Founder Oluwadamilare Art Alade stressed AI’s potential in preserving cultural heritage.
Makemation combines the talents of Nollywood stars, tech professionals, public officials, and social media influencers in a unique storytelling format.
The four-quadrant family drama seamlessly integrates pop culture, research, and artificial intelligence, creating a high-energy, thought-provoking, and humorous cinematic experience.
