Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched Africa’s pioneering AI feature film, Makemation, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s creative industry.
The unveiling took place on Sunday in Marina, with the film set for its cinematic debut in Lagos on April 18.
“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,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu. He expressed his commitment to supporting the creative sector and ensuring Lagos remains a hub for digital innovation.
Produced by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, Makemation explores themes of STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality.
Akerele-Ogunsiji, who also produced the film, emphasized its focus on showcasing indigenous Nigerian innovations, saying, “This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few.”
The movie, starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, and Shaffy Bello, examines the intersection of AI and real life, with groundbreaking scenes such as young people designing bras that detect breast cancer.
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, highlighted the government’s efforts over the past six years to empower creatives, including training nearly 20,000 young Nigerians in various creative fields.
“Technology is key to the industry’s future. We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she said.
The event was also attended by notable figures including the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Ali Nuhu, and Microsoft’s Country Manager, Olatomiwa Williams, who stressed the importance of equipping Nigerians with responsible AI skills for the future.
Makemation blends pop culture, research, and AI into an engaging family drama, showcasing the transformative power of technology in shaping Africa’s creative future.