Makemation, a Nigerian artificial intelligence-themed feature film out is set for release in Lagos, Nigeria this Easter.
Produced by a visionary Nigerian company, Makemation is Africa’s first feature film on AI, starring Nollywood luminaries and helmed by Michael “Ama Psalmist” Akinrogunde. Set for worldwide release on 18 April 2025, the groundbreaking film blends technology, culture, and innovation.
With international buzz already generated through a teaser screening at the 2024 Global AI Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a private stakeholders’ viewing at the Kenya Innovation Week 2024, and an exclusive screening at the residence of the U.S. Consul General in Lagos leading up to the Global Inclusivity and AI Africa Conference, the film is set for its Nigerian cinematic debut on 18 April 2025 before rolling out globally in May.
The cinema debut is slated for April 18, followed by an international rollout across other African countries, the US, Europe, and the Middle East, in May 2025. Featuring an unconventional and exciting mix of Nollywood’s brightest stars, tech industry experts, public officials and emerging talents from the social media space, Makemation is a four-quadrant family drama that distinctively blends pop culture, research and AI into a high-tension, inspiring and comedic masterpiece.
Boasting a star-studded cast that includes Tomi Ojo, Ibrahim Chatta, Chioma Chukwuka, Ali Nuhu, Yvonne Jegede, Shaffy Bello, and Richard Mofe Damijo, Makemation is a four-quadrant family drama that melds pop culture with cutting-edge research into AI. The coming-of-age film takes audiences on an emotional, thought-provoking, and hilarious journey, highlighting how young Africans are leveraging world-class technology to tackle some of the continent’s most wicked Problems. Produced by a gifted and vibrant team of young creatives, many in their 20s and 30s, Makemation goes beyond entertainment to explore critical themes such as STEM education, digital skills, financial literacy, and gender equality. The film also advocates for greater accessibility to technology, inclusion of disadvantaged populations, and equitable healthcare driven by locally developed solutions.
“Makemation is more than just a film; it’s a movement. We want to spark conversations, drive policy changes, and engage young minds—students, teachers, and parents—on the transformative power of AI and the technologies of the fourth industrial revolution. As Gen Zs and Gen Alphas shape the future, this is Nigeria and Africa’s moment to take the lead in the global digital revolution,” says Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, the renowned AI for Development expert and global thought leader who created and produced Makemation.“Through this film, we invite the world to see the intersection of Nigeria’s creative and digital economies through our ambitions and traditions – and co-create the best of AI tools that will serve the interest of humanity.”
The film is directed by the young, multi-award-winning filmmaker, Michael “AMA PSALMIST” Akinrogunde. Shot across diverse, visually stunning locations—including newly built sets in rural, riverine communities, as well as some of Lagos’ most exclusive highbrow areas and never-before-seen spaces—Makemation stands out with its exceptional storytelling, original score, striking production design, humour, and deeply insightful themes.
It’s a culturally fit film created to captivate audiences of all ages, ethnic groups and religions, combining entertainment with education in an unprecedented way.
Akerele-Ogunsiji and Akinrogunde have crafted a film that is as much about humour and heart as it is about the transformative power of technology. With music supervision by Dare Art Alade, production consultancy from James Omokwe, music and sound design by Tolu “Tyanx” Obanro, and editing by Adio Solanke, every element of the film exudes innovation and cultural flair.
Produced by Rise Interactive Studios and Rise Networks, two visionary sister organisations dedicated to showcasing Africa’s innovation potential, the film sends a clear message: tomorrow is already here in Africa, and Nigeria’s youth will not be left behind in the technological transformation reshaping the world.
Makemation is exclusively distributed by Nile Entertainment, led by consummate film entrepreneur, Moses Babatope. When it starts showing in cinemas worldwide, don’t just watch it with your family, work colleagues and friends; hold on tight to the laughter and lessons, join the conversation on makemation.com and follow @makemationfilm across all social media platforms.
A first-of-its-kind Nollywood film
At its core, Makemation is a coming-of-age family drama that blends pop culture, AI, and research into a thought-provoking and entertaining masterpiece.
The film tells the inspiring story of a brilliant but underprivileged teenage girl who uses her intellect and determination to navigate the challenges of her world; a reflection of how young Africans today are leveraging technology to solve real-world problems.
Produced by a team of young, dynamic creatives, many in their 20s and 30s, the film doesn’t just entertain, it educates and sparks critical conversations.
Key themes explored include STEM education, digital skills and financial literacy, gender equality and inclusivity, and AI-driven healthcare solutions.
