Imagine creating an advertising video for a skincare brand without booking a studio, hiring models or organising an entire production crew. What once required considerable planning and money can now be approached differently with artificial intelligence. For Nigerian entrepreneur Yetunde Hunga, discovering this possibility marked the beginning of a business journey.

Hunga initially explored AI-generated videos out of curiosity, experimenting with different tools and testing what they could produce. But as she became more familiar with the technology, she began to see a business opportunity. Brands needed engaging content, and she had found another way to deliver it.

That discovery led to Aduni AI, a Lagos-based creative studio that specialises in AI-powered content production. Today, Hunga works as an AI Creative Director, helping businesses develop visual advertisements, promotional videos and other digital content. Through Aduni AI, she has secured more than 20 brand partnerships, including international companies, while introducing over 500 students to AI-powered content creation.

Seeing a business opportunity in AI

Brands constantly need fresh content to promote their products, reach customers and remain visible online. Traditional advertising production can involve photographers, videographers, models, locations and equipment, all of which add to the cost of a campaign. AI offers another option, allowing certain types of content to be produced with fewer resources and, in some cases, shorter turnaround times.

Aduni AI provides services including AI-generated advertising videos, virtual presenters, AI avatars, product visuals and user-generated content-style videos. Its clients span industries such as skincare, beauty, real estate, fintech and technology.

However, creating attractive visuals is only part of the job. A skincare brand needs content that builds trust and communicates its products effectively. A real estate company may want to sell a particular lifestyle, while a fintech business needs to explain its services clearly.

Also Read: Adeoye Adetunji is crafting a different kind of cinema through stop-motion

Hunga approaches these projects by first considering the story a brand wants to tell, rather than simply choosing an AI tool and generating content. The technology helps bring the idea to life, but understanding the audience and the purpose of the campaign remains essential.

This is what separates commercial creative work from simply experimenting with AI. Producing something a client is willing to pay for requires creative direction, an understanding of the brief and the judgement to know what works.

Beyond creating content: Building a business

As Aduni AI developed, Hunga also had to learn the business side of creative work. Contracts, usage rights, pricing, project timelines and client expectations became important parts of running the studio.

She has spoken about learning to become more selective with opportunities rather than accepting every offer. It is a valuable lesson in an industry where the accessibility of AI tools can make creative services appear less valuable.

Businesses are not simply paying for an image or video. They expect someone who understands their objectives, communicates professionally and delivers content that serves a purpose.

Hunga has also extended her work into training and mentorship. Through courses, learning cohorts and practical guidance, Aduni AI helps aspiring creators understand how to use AI tools for content production and potential income opportunities. Its 30-day content series has also introduced audiences to ways of earning through AI.

For students, learning how to generate images and videos is only the beginning. Building a portfolio, finding clients, setting appropriate rates and delivering projects professionally are equally important. The goal is to help people move beyond acquiring a new skill to finding practical ways to earn from it.

Making room for African creators in the AI economy

Artificial intelligence is opening creative opportunities that were previously more difficult or expensive to access. However, having the tools does not automatically translate into a successful business. Creators must still develop their skills, understand their markets and produce work that clients find valuable.

There are also challenges to navigate, including subscription costs, international payments, changing technology and maintaining quality. Questions around originality, transparency and the appropriate use of AI-generated content remain important.

For Hunga, the opportunity lies in helping African creatives participate more actively in this developing industry. With the right skills, portfolios and professional relationships, they can offer services beyond their immediate markets and compete for international work.

Her journey shows how curiosity about an emerging technology can develop into something commercially meaningful. From experimenting with AI-generated videos to building a creative studio, securing brand partnerships and training other creators, Hunga is demonstrating that there is room to build a business around the technology. Ultimately, the tools may make content creation easier, but it is the ability to turn creative ideas into solutions that businesses value that gives the work its commercial worth.

Meiza Nigeria