Makemation has become Africa’s first feature film focused on artificial intelligence (AI). Directed by Michael “Ama Psalmist” Akinrogunde and produced by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, the film has captured the attention of both audiences and critics, making a big impact on the Nigerian film industry.
Released on April 18, 2025, Makemation quickly became a hit. In just the first four days, the film earned an impressive ₦32.9 million (around $20,438), making it the highest-grossing African film about technology so far. This success shows that people are eager for new and innovative stories in Nigerian cinema.
The Story of the FilmSet in a near-future Lagos, Makemation tells the story of Zara Sodangi, a 17-year-old girl from a poor background who gets into the Makemation Institute, Nigeria’s top tech academy. Zara faces many challenges but uses AI to help solve problems in her community, like improving healthcare, education, and food security.
Impact on Education and CultureMakemation is not just entertaining, but it also sparks important conversations about technology in Africa. The film’s focus on a young African girl using AI has inspired many students and teachers, emphasizing the need for more focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. The producers are planning to take the film to campuses across Nigeria to inspire students to pursue careers in tech.
What’s Next for Makemation?After its success in Nigerian cinemas, the team behind Makemation plans to release the film in other parts of Africa, the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. The goal is to showcase African talent and start conversations about how AI can be used in different fields.
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