Entertainment

Mo Abudu Calls on Nigerians to Build Homegrown Streaming Platforms Amid Foreign Pullback

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 6th, 2026.

Media mogul and EbonyLife Group CEO, Mo Abudu, has urged Nigerian and African content creators to take charge of developing sustainable local streaming platforms, following reports that foreign investors are scaling back on the continent.

Abudu shared her message on Instagram on Thursday, emphasizing that Africans cannot rely on external players to drive the growth of their entertainment industry. “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.

Her comments come amid reports that Canal+ may shut down its streaming service Showmax as part of cost-cutting measures after acquiring MultiChoice, signaling a potential reduction in foreign investment.

While acknowledging the early stage of indigenous streaming platforms, Abudu said patience and commitment are key for growth. “It’s still very early days for the new 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 are prepared for the work it requires,” she explained.

Abudu highlighted Africa’s cultural richness and storytelling heritage as a solid foundation for homegrown entertainment. “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.”

Optimistic about the future, she framed the moment as an opportunity for African creatives. “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.”

This call to action underscores a growing push for self-reliance in Africa’s entertainment industry as global streaming giants reconsider their strategies on the continent.