Founder of EbonyLife Group, Mo Abudu, has called on Nigerian and African creatives to develop sustainable local streaming platforms following reports that foreign platforms may be scaling back investments in the region.
Abudu’s reaction comes after reports that Canal+ is considering shutting down the streaming service Showmax as part of cost-cutting measures after its acquisition of MultiChoice, according to a report by Variety.
Taking to Instagram, Abudu stressed the importance of African ownership and control of the continent’s creative industry, urging stakeholders to build platforms that reflect and sustain local storytelling.
“No one is coming to save us. It’s up to us to build a sustainable business model that truly works for our market,” she said.
The media entrepreneur highlighted her own streaming platform, EbonyLife ON Plus, noting that it is designed to promote African narratives while supporting local creators.
According to her, indigenous streaming services are still in their early stages but hold great potential for growth if supported by industry players and audiences.
“It’s still very early days for the new indigenous Nigerian streaming platforms that have launched recently.
At EbonyLife ON Plus, we are committed to doing what we can to grow and strengthen our platforms. We understand that it is a long journey and we are prepared for the work and patience it requires,” she added.
Abudu also urged African creatives to study global entertainment models and adapt successful strategies to suit the continent’s unique cultural and economic environment.
“We are a continent rich in culture, tradition, and powerful stories. We must learn from global success stories, adapt what works, and create our own pathways because that is exactly what others have done,” she said.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding foreign streaming platforms, Abudu expressed optimism about the future of Africa’s entertainment industry, describing the situation as an opportunity for local growth.
“I truly believe we are capable of this. The future is in our hands. Let us build it with confidence, collaboration, and belief. Personally, I see this as an opportunity rather than a challenge. Local for Local. Local for Global,” she concluded.