Global video streaming leader Netflix has dismissed rumors suggesting plans to exit Nigeria, affirming its dedication to the country’s thriving creative industry. In an official response on Wednesday, the company reaffirmed its commitment to Nigerian storytelling and content creation.
Edafe Onoriode, Group Account Director at Hill and Knowlton Strategies, Netflix’s public relations agency, clarified the company’s stance in an email to FRONTPAGE:
“We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our members,” the Netflix spokesperson said.
The streaming giant has built strong ties with Nollywood since entering the Nigerian market in 2016. Its collaboration with the Nigerian film industry began with acquiring distribution rights to local productions and later expanded to original content, such as Genevieve Nnaji’s Lionheart, Netflix’s first Nigerian original film.
Despite Netflix’s global success, there have been concerns about its local returns from the Nigerian market. A source close to the industry 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.”
Reports from London-based research firm Omdia highlight that Nigeria accounts for only 10.5% of Netflix’s African subscriber base, significantly trailing behind South Africa, which dominates with 73.3%.
Across Africa, Netflix’s growth has been steady but measured, reporting 1.6 million subscribers on the continent after six years of operation. However, projections suggest subscriptions will grow to 2.2 million in the next five years, indicating sustained interest in African markets.
Netflix’s continued investment in Nigerian stories and its partnership with Nollywood reflect its confidence in the region’s creative potential. As it strengthens its foothold in Nigeria, the platform remains committed to supporting local filmmakers and delivering content that resonates with both Nigerian and global audiences.
