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No Plans To Leave Nigeria Now – Netflix Debunks Reports On Exit

Published

2 months ago

Dec 5, 2024.

Global video streaming giant Netflix has refuted speculations suggesting that it plans to exit Nigeria, affirming its dedication to the country’s thriving creative industry.

The rumors gained traction after Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan shared a video expressing disappointment over Netflix’s decision to cancel several commissioned projects. He recounted his excitement over a three-film deal signed with the platform three years ago, which he said brought significant global success but reportedly failed to meet Netflix’s expectations in local returns.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Afolayan further noted, “Thank God we had shot seasons two and three… because all the other people that were commissioned with us at the same time were cancelled.” His statement fueled concerns about Netflix’s future in Nigeria.

In response to these speculations, Netflix, through its public relations agency Hill and Knowlton Strategies, issued a statement dismissing the claims. Edafe Onoriode, Group Account Director for the agency, stated in an email to The Punch:
“We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our members.”

Netflix has been a major player in Nigeria’s entertainment scene since 2016, when it began acquiring distribution rights for Nollywood films. Its presence has grown significantly, highlighted by the production of original Nigerian content such as Genevieve Nnaji’s Lionheart, the first Nigerian Netflix original.

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The company’s commitment underscores its strategic focus on Africa’s expanding market, where it collaborates with Nollywood to bring local stories to a global audience.

This reassurance from Netflix indicates a sustained effort to support and amplify Nigeria’s rich storytelling potential while navigating challenges within the industry.