Renowned Nigerian filmmaker and media mogul Mo Abudu has described the recent closure of MultiChoice’s streaming platform, Showmax, as a crucial wake-up call for African creatives to build and sustain indigenous distribution platforms.
On Thursday, Canal+ Group, the French media giant that recently acquired MultiChoice, announced its decision to discontinue Showmax following a “comprehensive review” by its board, a move the company said was aimed at strengthening its overall digital offering.
The closure comes amid a broader trend of international streamers scaling back their investments across the African continent.
Reacting to the development via her Instagram page, Abudu emphasized the urgent need for self-reliance in the African film industry, urging local creatives to focus on developing systems that are tailored to the continent’s unique market.
“Let me say this with complete sincerity. No one is coming to save us. It is up to us to build sustainable business models that truly work for our market.
“I know many of you have heard the news about platforms like Showmax closing and have seen other streamers reduce their investment across the continent,” Abudu wrote.
The CEO of EbonyLife Media noted that while building successful local streaming services will demand time, patience, and sustained effort, her own platform, EbonyLife ON Plus, remains firmly committed to providing that solution.
“It is still very early days for the new indigenous Nigerian streaming platforms that have launched recently. At EbonyLifeONPlus, we are committed to doing everything we can to grow and strengthen our platform. We understand that it is a long journey and we are prepared for the work and patience it requires,” she explained.
Abudu highlighted Africa’s rich cultural heritage and powerful storytelling potential, arguing that these assets can succeed globally if creatives learn from established models and adapt them to local realities.
She framed the exit of major foreign streamers not as a setback, but as a unique opportunity for Africans to collaborate and take control of their own narratives.
“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 stated.
“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,” Abudu concluded.
