Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu premiered Makemation, Africa’s first feature film on artificial intelligence (AI), on Sunday.
Speaking during the unveiling in Marina, Sanwo-Olu announced that the AI film, produced by human development expert Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, will make its cinematic debut in Lagos on Friday, April 18.
Sanwo-Olu thanked the producer and cast, assuring them of his commitment to work on transformational ideas that will project and grow the state’s creative industry.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in necessary infrastructure to help the creative sector grow.
“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.
According to producer Akerele-Ogunsiji, the film delves into subjects such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality.
She mentioned that Makemation, starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu, explores the interface between real life and artificial intelligence.
She said that the video also delves into AI’s revolutionary 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.
Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, emphasized the government’s efforts to support creatives during the last six years.
She stated that the ministry had trained approximately 20,000 young Nigerians in filmmaking, content development, and other creative industries through strategic collaborations.
She stated that institutions such as EbonyLife Academy, Gidi Creatives, AMA Creative Academy, and Delyork Academy have worked together on these efforts.
She emphasized that technology is critical to the industry’s future, with Lagos establishing itself as a pioneer in digital innovation.
“Our visit to San Francisco to engage with tech entrepreneur Ghazi Shami was a strategic step toward fostering strong digital partnerships.
“We aim to build a globally competitive workforce ready to dominate the creative economy,” she added.
She mentioned 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.
The DG 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, emphasized the need to equip young Nigerians with responsible AI skills.
She called for collaborations between tech hubs, government, schools, and private organizations to expand AI education.
“This initiative is inspiring. With government support, we must focus on educating Nigerians on responsible AI use,” she said.
Oluwadamilare Art Alade, co-founder of Livespot360, emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence in protecting cultural heritage.
Makemation combines Nollywood stars, tech specialists, public leaders, and social media icons in an unusual combination.
The four-quadrant family drama combines pop culture, research, and artificial intelligence to create an intriguing, suspenseful, and hilarious masterwork.
