Entertainment

Netflix Denies Leaving Nigerian Market

Published

2 months ago

December 5, 2024

Netflix Denies Leaving Nigerian Market

Despite reports from three publications suggesting Netflix is exiting the Nigerian market, the global streaming giant has firmly denied these claims, insisting it will continue to invest in Nigerian content.

The speculation was fueled by comments from Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, who spoke at the 2024 Zuma International Film Festival. Afolayan claimed Netflix canceled several films it had previously commissioned from unnamed filmmakers.

“Three years ago, when we signed the three-film deal with Netflix, it was really exciting,” Afolayan said. The filmmaker went on to share that despite the stellar performance of those movies globally, Netflix seemed unimpressed by their returns in Nigeria.

“Thank God we had shot seasons two and three [of Anikulapo] because all the other people that were commissioned with us at the same time were canceled.”

However, Afolayan did not explicitly state that Netflix was exiting the Nigerian market, although his remarks will rightly drive speculation that the streaming platform is retreating from the country. This speculation is not entirely unfounded—Amazon Prime, another major streaming service, exited Nigeria in January 2024 one year after a huge marketing campaign and a slate of original Nigerian productions..

In a statement to TechCabal on Wednesday, a Netflix spokesperson reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria, saying, “We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our audience.”

The spokesperson did not immediately address Afolayan’s claims about canceled projects. Still, Wednesday’s conversation and social media reactions highlight growing uncertainty around Netflix’s long-term strategy in Nigeria, where rising inflation and currency devaluation have pressured consumer spending power.

Netflix has struggled to capture a large share of Nigeria’s competitive streaming market, which is dominated by the more affordable Showmax, a service operated by Multichoice. Netflix—currently priced at ₦7,000 ($4) per month—remains a luxury for many Nigerians, especially as inflation and naira devaluation erode purchasing power.

With local players continuing to outperform in pricing, Netflix’s ability to maintain its position in the region could become increasingly challenging.

Netflix’s relationship with Nigeria dates back to 2016 when it began licensing high-profile local films. Since 2016, it has poured over $23 million into Nigeria’s film industry, backing over 250 locally licensed titles, co-productions, and original commissions. Lionheart, The Wedding Party 2, and King of Boys are some of its most recognisable titles. In 2020, the streaming service signed multi-title deals with prominent Nigerian producers like Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Productions. In 2021, it expanded its partnership with Kunle Afolayan, signing a deal for three films, including an adaptation of Sefi Atta’s Swallow.

Entertainment

Musbau Alani: Fuji music has evolved

Published

3 days ago

January 20, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Musbau Alani: Fuji music has evolved

Veteran Fuji musician, Alhaji Jimoh Musbau Alani popularly known as Omokekere, says Fuji music has evolved, and is here to stay.

Alhaji Musbau Alani, who started his music career 47 years ago (1978) at Lagos Island, stated that there is a huge general improvement in the genre.

According to him, the introduction of modern musical instruments into Fuji music hasn’t just made it the most melodious indigenous Nigerian music, but has also given it an impeccable international appeal.

He reminisced that “I started with Were music in 1978, then transformed it to Fuji in 1979. In those days, we only used local drums. But there is a lot of transformation now with the introduction of guitars, saxophone, keyboard and others.”

Alhaji Alani added that some of his contemporaries were Toheeb Alamu, Comfy, Sule Akanni and Adisa Alasela, while the likes of Saka Laigbade, Ramoni Akanni, Joli Lawa, Raimi, Muyideen Asekun and K1 were his seniors.

He already has 22 albums on his sleeves, the latest one, ‘Reality’ released in 2023.

The ‘Stand well well’ crooner is still very active in the music scene, performing at different local and international gigs.

In his words, “my fans should expect more from me this year Insha Allah.”

Entertainment

Afrobeat Act, Mac Sarzy Thrills Fans At MAAN 35th Anniversary With Electrifying Performance of “Lalatoroke” (Video)

Published

6 days ago

January 18, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Afrobeat Act, Mac Sarzy Thrills Fans At MAAN 35th Anniversary With Electrifying Performance of “Lalatoroke” (Video)

The Music Advertisement Association of Nigeria (MAAN) celebrated its 35th anniversary on January 15, 2025, in Ikeja, Lagos, with an unforgettable evening of music and recognition. Among the standout performers was the rising Afrobeats star, Mac Sarzy, who delivered an electrifying rendition of his hit single, Lalatoroke, leaving the audience spellbound.

Mac Sarzy’s performance added an exciting dimension to the star-studded event, which also saw legendary Fuji acts like Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and Sulaimon Alao Malaika receiving prestigious awards for their contributions to music. While the evening honored these icons, Mac Sarzy proved that Afrobeats continues to elevate Nigeria’s music scene with his dynamic stage presence and undeniable talent.

One of the highlights of the night was Mac Sarzy’s special moment with Fuji legend Kollington Ayinla. Captured in a heartfelt photograph, the pair symbolized the unity between musical genres and generations. The image has since sparked excitement among fans, with many celebrating the rising star’s recognition among the greats.

Speaking about his performance, Mac Sarzy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the stage with some of Nigeria’s biggest names. “It’s an honor to be part of this historic celebration. Performing Lalatoroke in front of industry legends and fans means the world to me. Nigerian music has always been about storytelling, and I’m proud to contribute my voice to this tradition,” he said.

The MAAN 35th anniversary wasn’t just a celebration of Fuji’s past but also a testament to Nigeria’s evolving musical legacy. With artists like Mac Sarzy delivering powerful performances, it’s clear that the industry is not only thriving but also reaching new heights.

As the buzz around his performance continues to grow, Mac Sarzy’s star shines brighter, solidifying his place as one of Afrobeats’ most promising talents. Fans and industry insiders alike are already anticipating what this exceptional artist has in store next.

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Entertainment

Popular Gospel Singer, Oba Ara Bags Icon of music award from MAAN

Published

7 days ago

January 17, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Popular Gospel Singer, Oba Ara Bags Icon of music award from MAAN

It’s indeed another memorable and historic moment for the notable Nigerian born gospel singer, Dr Evangelist Rotimi Onimole Oba Ara, as the Lagos born dancehall singer bagged another big award.

Oba Ara, who is the creator of ju-fuji-gosple style of music was honoured with the Icon of music award, the award was bestowed on him by the national body of Music Advertisement Association of Nigeria MAAN.

Oba Ara received the prestigious award at the just held 35 years anniversary of MAAN. The award was presented to Oba Ara by world famous Fuji Star, Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Ajibola Pasuma. While presenting award to Oba Ara, Pasuma congratulated him for picking such big award from MAAN.

After the award, Oba thanks the executive and entire members of MAAN for the honour and promise to continue doing what he knows how to do best.