Streaming Giant Netflix Cuts Ties with Nigerian Filmmakers

Netflix has officially ceased commissioning, acquiring, and funding Nigerian original productions as of November 2024, marking a significant shift in the streaming giant’s relationship with the country’s film industry. This decision ends a dynamic era that began in 2016 when Netflix entered the African market and later deepened its involvement with Nigerian content in 2020.

Over the years, Netflix became a cornerstone of Nigeria’s burgeoning Nollywood industry, backing iconic productions like King of Boys, Blood Sisters, Shanty Town, and Anikulapo. However, this chapter appears to be closing with the upcoming debuts of Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors on December 13 and Kemi Adetiba’s To Kill a Monkey, likely among the last Nigerian originals on the platform.

The move mirrors a similar decision by Netflix’s main competitor, Amazon Prime Video, which scaled back its investment in African and Middle Eastern content in January 2024, redirecting its focus to European markets. In Nigeria, Amazon had funded acclaimed projects such as Gangs of Lagos and She Must Be Obeyed.

The announcement of Netflix’s withdrawal came at the Zuma Film Festival in Abuja, where Victor Ohai, President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, shared the news, describing it as a “fatal last supper.” At Netflix’s recent celebration, “Lights, Camera… Naija!”—an annual event honoring Nollywood stakeholders—filmmakers were informed of the platform’s decision to pull out. The event, though vibrant and celebratory, marked the end of an era for many industry veterans.

Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, one of Netflix’s key collaborators, expressed concern over the economic and creative ramifications. He highlighted the stability that Netflix’s contracts provided, allowing filmmakers to focus on their craft while earning in foreign currency. Afolayan reflected on the shift from Netflix-funded projects to navigating an uncertain future, particularly for creators reliant on streaming platforms to showcase their work globally.

Afolayan also underscored the importance of government investment in the creative industry, pointing to gaps in infrastructure and funding. He called for initiatives such as film villages, renewable energy solutions, and support for local distribution platforms. Without these measures, he warned, the industry could face significant challenges.

Netflix’s decision also aligns with Nigeria’s economic climate, including rising data costs and declining purchasing power, which have hindered subscription growth. In July 2024, Netflix increased its subscription rates in Nigeria, with the Premium plan rising to ₦7,000, a 40% jump from ₦5,000. Other plans saw similar price hikes, likely contributing to reduced affordability for many subscribers.