Lagos, Nigeria – Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, a human development expert turned filmmaker, has unveiled Makemation, Nigeria’s first feature film centered on Artificial Intelligence, after dedicating three years to its research, production, and editing.
The groundbreaking film, which merges generative AI with live-action storytelling, premiered before a star-studded audience at Lagos House in Marina last Sunday.
Makemation explores the intersection of real life and AI, featuring young Nigerians harnessing technology to solve real-world challenges.
Speaking with NollyNow shortly after the film’s unveiling, Akerele-Ogunsiji emphasized her passion for AI and its role in shaping the future.
“The future is here, and technology is radically transforming our world,” she said. “AI is a career path I chose a few years ago while pursuing my PhD. My thesis was on ‘The Role of AI: National and Economic Security.’
This film is a reflection of that passion—showcasing how AI can be a tool for human advancement rather than a threat to creativity.”
Akerele-Ogunsiji revealed that she and her team began working on Makemation in June 2022, with principal photography commencing in 2023.
The project has since gained global recognition, with a teaser screening at the 2024 Global AI Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A private stakeholders’ viewing in Kenya is scheduled ahead of the film’s nationwide release on April 18, 2025.
“This is just the beginning,” she added. “We plan to produce six episodes of Makemation. My dream is to create a definitive, creative material that will open the minds of young people in Nigeria and Africa to the limitless possibilities of technology.”
The film boasts an impressive cast, featuring some of Nollywood’s biggest names, including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Tony Umez, Shaffy Bello, Ibrahim Chatta, Toyin Afolayan, and Ali Nuhu.
Beyond entertainment, Makemation tackles critical themes such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, gender equality, and accessible technology.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who attended the premiere, commended Akerele-Ogunsiji and her team for their innovation, pledging his administration’s continued support for the creative industry in Lagos.
“The creative industry is a key part of our economy, and we will continue to collaborate on transformative ideas that project and develop our local talents,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
Following its official release, Makemation will embark on an educational tour across tertiary and secondary schools in Nigeria, aiming to inspire the next generation of tech innovators.
“This film is for the future,” Akerele-Ogunsiji affirmed. “Success isn’t reserved for a select few; Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations and tell our own stories through technology.”
With its unique blend of artificial intelligence and live-action storytelling, Makemation is set to make a significant impact on African cinema and the global tech community.
