Netflix Denies Nigerian Exit, But We’re Not Buying the Drama Just Yet!

In a move that feels more like a soap opera than a corporate announcement, Netflix has officially shot down rumors that it’s leaving Nigeria. Yes, despite whispers at the 2024 Zuma Film Festival- inspired by Victor Okhai, president of the Directors Guild of Nigeria’s comments and subsequent remarks from filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, whose remarks inspired suggestions that the streaming giant was quietly packing its bags, (since they had stopped commissioning new Nigerian content), Netflix is sticking around. "We are not exiting Nigeria," an official Netflix spokesperson boldly declared, adding, "We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories," reiterating their commitment to supporting the Nigerian film industry​ [source: The Street Journal

Back row (From L-R): Banky W, Ted Sarandos (Netflix Chief Content Officer), Kate Henshaw, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Felipe Tewes (Netflix Italian & African Originals Director), Omoni Oboli, Ben Amadasun (Netflix Africa Licensing Director) and Akin Omotoso Front Row (L-R) Mo Abudu, Adesua Etomi, Dorothy Ghettuba (Netflix African Originals lead) , Kunle Afolayan, Kemi Adetiba and Ramsey Noah.

Because nothing says “we’re not leaving” like telling people you’re not leaving, right? Maybe Netflix just couldn’t resist a little more Anikulapo or Blackbook—two Nigerian films that, let’s be honest, have been major cash cows for the platform. They certainly aren’t going to miss the chance to have Nollywood lead the charge in global streaming domination. So, in case you missed it, Netflix is definitely not leaving. Or are they?

This denial aims to reassure the public and stakeholders of Netflix’s ongoing presence and investment in the Nigerian market despite industry concerns over reduced local production.

Afolayan described his statements as a “wake-up call” for the Nigerian film industry to take control of its distribution and reduce dependency on international platforms.

For those of you still living under a rock (or Amazon Prime’s quick exit from Nigeria in 2019), let’s just remind you that this is not exactly a brand-new cliffhanger. Amazon Prime came, made a splash, and then—poof!—vanished almost as quickly as they arrived, leaving behind a faint trail of unfulfilled expectations and a few confused subscribers. Meanwhile, Netflix has raked in millions with hits like King of Boys, Shanty Town, and Blood Sisters, not to mention a growing treasure trove of Nigerian original content.

Is Netflix doubling down on Nigeria because of those sweet, sweet Netflix and chill numbers? Or is it just playing the long game while waiting for the next big Nollywood blockbuster to come their way? We’re watching. Honestly, who wouldn’t be? Stay tuned for the next episode, because this Nigerian streaming saga is far from over.

While we all wait for the dust to settle, Netflix's reassurances still ring a little hollow. After all, it’s not like we've never seen a major streaming platform pull out of a market before. So, while Netflix may be sticking around—for now—don’t be too surprised if we wake up to an unexpected plot twist in the coming months. You just never know when Netflix might change its mind. But hey, if they leave, at least we’ve got Squid Game to keep us company—right?