Tell authentic African stories, embrace AI, Tunde Kelani charges young filmmakers

….as DGN honours him, Andy Boyo, Multi choice at directors’ Week, awards show in Lagos

By Benjamin Njoku

Legendary filmmaker Tunde Kelani has urged young Nigerian directors to look inward for stories and embrace technology, saying Artificial Intelligence is a tool to enhance, not erase, African creativity.

Kelani made this assertion, while speaking at the maiden edition of Directors Guild of Nigeria, DGN Week and Awards 2026 in Lagos. The internationally acclaimed director, popularly known as TK, was honoured with a Special Recognition Award for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry.

“I want to advise our young filmmakers to look back to Africa for their authentic stories and never to be afraid to embrace new technology,” TK said. “AI is not going to take away your history, your artistry or your languages. It is a tool to enhance your work.”

The three-day event, held from August 19 to 21, 2026, at the Alliance Française/Mike Adenuga Centre, Ikoyi, brought together directors, producers, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigeria’s screen industry.

Alongside Kelani, revered filmmaker and Nollywood patron, Mr. Andy Boyo received the Industry Service Award. Multichoice Nigeria was also honoured for its outstanding contribution to the country’s creative economy.

Kelani, whose career spans over four decades and is best known for screen adaptations of Nigerian novels and plays, described the award as deeply meaningful.

“As directors, we don’t only entertain. We are custodians of our history, our languages and traditions. This award would remain precious to me for the rest of my life. It came at a time when I’m still working, learning and making mistakes,” he said.

Andy Boyo, known for producing a…

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