NEWS XTRA
AFRICAN STORIES DESERVE OWN SPACE, PLATFORM — MO ABUDU
Media mogul and EbonyLife founder asserts that indigenous storytelling must be driven by African creators, emphasizing authentic narratives and global distribution autonomy
Renowned media entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife Group, Mo Abudu, has stated that African stories deserve dedicated spaces and independent platforms to thrive without creative dilution.
Speaking at an international media summit, Abudu emphasized that while global streaming partnerships have expanded the reach of Nollywood and African cinema, the core control of intellectual property and distribution narratives must remain firmly in indigenous hands.
She noted that authentic representation requires African producers to tell their own stories from lived experiences, highlighting cultural nuances, historical depth, and contemporary realities that external gatekeepers might otherwise overlook.
The media pioneer further stressed the need for increased infrastructural investment and robust financing frameworks to support local filmmakers, noting that sustainable industry growth relies on homegrown capital and institutional partnerships.
Industry stakeholders praised her relentless advocacy for African creative sovereignty, echoing the sentiment that owning the platform and the distribution channels is critical to shaping global perceptions and driving economic value across the continent's entertainment sector.