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AI and African storytelling: Empowering the next generation of filmmakers
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the global film industry, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), a leading pan-African film and TV production academy, recognises the transformative potential of AI in empowering the next generation of African storytellers. Besides being a sustainable, impactful talent pipeline, MTF is a flagship MultiChoice CSI initiative, with the goal of ensuring that Africa’s next generation are not just consumers, but active shapers of the technology evolution. As storytellers, they are also equipped to make use of technology, leverage AI to enhance African creativity and drive industry growth on the continent.The AI enabler In this understanding of the new technology, AI is not seen as an alternative to human creativity, or a threat, but an enabler; an amplifier. For African filmmakers, AI opens doors to enhance storytelling, streamline production processes, and bring authentic narratives to life in innovative ways. By embracing AI, filmmakers can elevate their craft, making it more efficient and accessible while preserving the rich humanity that defines African storytelling traditions.AI is already established as an invaluable tool in the production of mainstream commercial films. Several cult and commercial films have used AI as an integral part of their production process. Among these was The Irishman from 2019, which used an AI technology called FaceSwap to reference older movies of the lead actors, and then create youthful “de-aged” versions of those actors.A similar type of “deepfake” technology is also sometimes used in high-budget action movies to replace the faces of stunt artists with the faces of the lead actors in the final film. Such a technique was used in the Marvel movie Shang-Chi And The Legend of the Ten Rings, where machine learning was used to “swap” the faces of stunt doubles during fight scenes. In The Brutalist, AI was used to improve the pronunciation of lead actors Adrien Brody and Felicity Jones, who speak Hungarian in parts of the movie.Some filmmaking AI applications have drawn praise, while others have courted controversy. However, for Africa to occupy its rightful space as home to many of the world’s greatest stories, the continent’s storytelling talent must learn these AI methods – and a host of others.The tools at workMany of these AI tools are pre-production tools that enhance the efficiency of the process and even make it more affordable. During the process, AI technology can be used for applications like idea iteration, scene blocking, to generate mood boards, or to assist with initial script drafts.AI can also assist in generating a range of plot possibilities, help to pre-visualise scenes, streamline editing and create sophisticated visual effects.While AI offers immense potential, it also raises ethical questions, such as data privacy, representation, and the responsible use of technologies like deepfakes. MTF stresses the importance of addressing these concerns thoughtfully, encouraging filmmakers to use AI in ways that respect cultural values and maintain trust with audiences.Opportunities for African StorytellersFor African filmmakers, AI presents a unique opportunity to tell stories that resonate globally while staying rooted in local cultures. By leveraging AI, they can create visually stunning films, enhance production efficiency, and reach wider audiences through platforms like MultiChoice’s hyperlocal content ecosystem, which prioritises stories that reflect viewers’ lived experiences.MTF’s mission is to empower young filmmakers to seize these opportunities, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the technological future of the industry. By encouraging a deep understanding of AI’s capabilities, MTF encourages graduates to push creative boundaries while maintaining the authenticity of African narratives.MultiChoice, parent company to MTF, is already deploying AI to enrich its content offering and to improve user experiences. AI tools are applied to extract useful insights from the oceans of data generated by MultiChoice subscribers and used to customise and refine their customer journeys. In the final analysis, AI is critical to delivering a world-class training programme that will equip aspiring film and TV professionals to thrive in a dynamic media landscape. With AI as a partner, the next generation of filmmakers is ready to redefine the art and impact of African cinema.
The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has donated the sum of N2 Million to disabled students in the prestigious Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH).
The man of God made the announcement during an event tagged “Voices of Resilience”, which Primate Ayodele was the chairman, to celebrate students with disabilities in the institution.
While making his speech, Primate Ayodele expressed his love for the disabled students, while encouraging Nigerian politicians to emulate characters that make society better. He frowned at the treatment the government has given people in the condition, while noting that politicians prefer to be at events that showcase their authority.
“This is one of the wonderful programmes I have ever seen, for the students to organize this, it’s a challenge to the government, especially in Lagos state, where I believe there should be a representation. If its not a social engagement like a wedding, they won’t be there.
“Our students are currently showing good examples, and this means they will grow to become great leaders. It’s quite unfortunate that we don’t see our political leaders at events like this. I am not here to criticize but to congratulate the organisers for this great event.”
He also expressed his displeasure at clerics in the nation, especially some of the popular ones, who don’t engage in humanitarian activities that showcase what Jesus Christ preached about loving one another. He mentioned that everything doesn’t have to be healing, but there are times when life-changing support for the downtrodden means a lot.
“We should have men of God in this gathering, and when you go to the bible, these are friends of Jesus Christ. This is another church entirely. We are not talking about miracles here; we are talking about life-changing events here. From my end here, to support this programme, I will give the sum of N2 Million.”
He subsequently announced the donation of N2 Million to support the disabled students.
In a reaction, the dean of student affairs, Mr Olalekan Shakirudeen, appreciated the man of God for his support. He noted that he has been hearing about Primate Ayodele but meeting him for the first time at the programme.
Likewise, the Student Union Government (SUG) president, Comrade Omogunle Monday, acknowledged Primate Ayodele’s benevolence, explaining that he surprised them even by attending the event and still making such a donation.
He also revealed that earlier on at his church, Primate Ayodele supported students from the institution with a sum of N50,000 each, which amounted to over N2 million during a Sunday programme.
“Primate Ayodele has been very wonderful. Before this, we were invited to a symposium at his church, where about 45 of our students were given N45,000 each, amounting to over N2 million. Doing this now is part of his generous engagement, and we are happy he is focusing on the students’ society to leverage his humanitarian services.”
Two years ago, Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Ayodele, listed some countries and specifically said they should expect a military coup that will attempt to take over the current leadership in the mentioned nations.
He listed some countries in Africa, including Guinea Bissau, Uganda, Togo, Benin Republic and some others.
These were his words:
“There is no way anyone can stop a coup in Africa as long as leaders in the continent are not doing the right thing, there will be a coup. The following countries; Uganda, Togo, Benin Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Gambia, and Congo Brazzaville must tidy up and do the needful because a coup will soon happen in these countries.’’
When he made this prophecy, many may not have paid attention because, as usual, when prophets warn nations, they tend to think the man of God is seeking something else, but the new development in Guinea Bissau involving an attempted coup against the president has ultimately fulfilled the prophecy of Primate Ayodele which he shared two years ago.
The government of Guinea-Bissau has announced that it successfully foiled an attempted coup just before the start of election campaigns scheduled for Saturday.
Speaking at a press conference in Bissau on Friday, Deputy Chief of Staff Mamadu Ture said the “action aimed to disrupt the electoral process.”
Ture identified Brigadier-General Daba Nawalna, director of a military training centre, as the alleged mastermind behind the plot.
This is no doubt another call to nations, presidents, governors, individuals who have been warned by Primate Ayodele in recent times or in the past that they would be doing themselves a disservice if they decide to ignore the prophecies of this great vessel. There is virtually nothing he said that doesn’t come to pass because they are directly from the throne of heaven.
He doesn’t need anything; he doesn’t like it when some of his prophecies come to pass, but people are obstinate, and that’s why they end up paying for their disobedience.
This is the same way he warned the Nigerian government to prepare against a coup because there will be attempts to topple Tinubu’s government. He warned in July 2024, did again earlier in the year and in October 2025 before the security operatives got to action. There are several coups in the continent that would have been averted if the presidents listened to Primate Ayodele’s warning but they are always too engrossed with power that they feel untouchable.
By Johnson Adeleke
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his cabinet members ought to get on the first flight to Lagos on Sunday and massively occupy INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, owned by Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Ayodele in appreciation to God for the attempted coup which didn’t materialize.
The specific mention of Primate Ayodele’s church isn’t to say that is the only place thanksgiving can be done but beyond that, it would be in acknowledgement of the prophet’s spiritual credibility because amongst the thousands of prophets in Nigeria, he was the only one who saw the attempted coup coming, even before the military intelligence acted.
Since July 2024, Primate Ayodele has been warning President Tinubu of attempts to take him out of power but it appeared his security agencies totally ignored the prophet probably they felt he was looking for their attention. He stated then that there will be political coup against the president and that saboteurs will begin to rise ahead of 2027 election.
These were his words:
“The way forward is constant electricity, mechanized farming, and ending insecurity. Insecurity is man-made, those behind it are in the system.
“The cabals in Tinubu’s government will rise soon. Saboteurs are in Tinubu’s government so the president must be watchful.
“The Northerners are plotting coup against him, political coup is coming against Tinubu in 2027.”
The prophet didn’t stop talking about the attempt and in July 2025, in an online interview, Primate Ayodele spoke about an intense plan to take Tinubu out of power unconstitutionally. He mentioned that some security operatives will be part of the plans to take the president out of power, while calling on the appropriate authorities to quickly work on the warning.
These were his words:
“I see an attempt to take power from him (Tinubu) in an unconstitutional manner. So, God warns him to take his personal safety very seriously. What I saw was coup-like, and tension everywhere,” declared Ayodele at the unveiling of the 2025 edition of his annual prophecy book, ‘Warnings To The Nations’, in Lagos.
Again in early October, Primate Ayodele called on security operatives to be very vigilant because some powerful Nigerians who are angry will attempt to seize power from President Tinubu in an unconstitutional manner. He stated that some security officers will be part of it.
These were his words:
“There will be an attempt to unseat Tinubu unconstitutionally; the NSA, DSS, and Chief of Army Staff must be careful about this. There are some gangs planning between November to January to unseat him.”
“ Even the Navy, Air Force will be part of it, including the Nigerian Army. President Tinubu must be ready for anything and fortify himself. He needs to change his security strategy because these personalities will be unbelievable names.”
As it stands, this warnings have been fulfilled after the Nigerian military reportedly foiled attempts to remove Tinubu from power. Although the military, as expected, denied such occurrence but event that have unfolded indicates that it happened. Some politicians, who were reportedly part of those behind it, confirmed that their homes were raided by military officers. Also, the sudden change of service chiefs just after the coup report surfaced is another indication.
Sincerely, the military intelligence must have used signals from Primate Ayodele to tackle this unfortunate incident and Primate Ayodele doesn’t only deserve to be appreciated but acknowledged for his timely alert.
Despite the criticisms he received after releasing the prophecy, he still continued talking about it till we got to this stage where something like it actually happened. President Tinubu definitely owes Primate Ayodele.
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