To know Mo Abudu is to know a woman who exemplifies the term “go-getter.” And that’s why it’s no surprise that she’s been hailed by Forbes as one of “Africa’s Most Successful Women.” Over the years, she has carved out her legacy as one of the most influential figures in media and entertainment—not just in Africa but globally.
Mo’s journey from a successful corporate career to becoming the visionary leader of EbonyLife Media speaks volumes of her unrelenting ambition and ability to recognise and seize opportunities. As a trailblazer in television and film, she transformed African storytelling, producing some of the most iconic films and TV series that have graced our screens. From Moments with Mo, the talk show that catapulted her into the media spotlight, to launching EbonyLife TV—Africa’s first global black entertainment network—her contributions have been both groundbreaking and deeply influential. She currently stands at the pinnacle of her career, having produced several blockbusters and secured deals with international giants like Netflix and Sony.
In this exclusive interview, she reflects on her journey, legacy, and future in the ever-evolving media and entertainment world.
Mo, first of all, a huge congratulations on turning 60! You’ve had such an incredible journey leading up to this milestone. How does it feel when you look back on all you’ve accomplished?
Thank you so much! Turning 60 feels like a moment of reflection and immense gratitude. Looking back, I’m filled with pride for the milestones achieved and the challenges overcome. It’s a beautiful blend of joy for the journey and excitement for what lies ahead.
When you were younger, how did you imagine your career would unfold? Does where you are now match up with those early dreams, or has your journey taken unexpected turns you couldn’t have predicted?
As a young girl, I had big dreams, but I could never have imagined my career’s exact path. I envisioned success in the corporate world, but the journey into media and storytelling was an unexpected turn. Life guides you to where you’re meant to be, even if it’s not where you initially thought you’d go.
You had a thriving corporate career before making the leap into the media industry. What sparked that decision? Was there a particular moment or experience that pushed you to dive into this new world?
The decision was born out of a desire to tell African stories in a way that hadn’t been done before. There wasn’t a singular moment but a growing realisation that I could contribute to shaping how the world sees Africa. The corporate world provided a strong foundation, but my passion for storytelling became impossible to ignore.
Taking such a bold step must have been daunting. Were you ever afraid of failing? What was your mindset when deciding to leap into the unknown?
Absolutely, the fear of failure is natural, but I’ve always believed that the bigger the risk, the greater the reward. My mindset was to focus on the possibilities rather than the fear. I trusted that I would learn and grow from the experience even if I stumbled.
“Moments with Mo” was a game-changer for African television—just what the industry needed at that time. Where did the inspiration for the show come from? And how do you think it shaped the talk show landscape in Nigeria?
“Moments with Mo” was inspired by a desire to create a platform where African stories could be told authentically. The show was about giving a voice to our experiences, challenges, and triumphs. It set a new standard for talk shows in Nigeria and across the continent, encouraging more localised content and discussions.
Let’s talk about EbonyLife TV. When you first launched it, what vision were you aiming for, and how has that vision grown and evolved over the years?
The vision for EbonyLife TV was to create premium, original content that resonated with African audiences and showcased our stories globally. Over the years, that vision has evolved into a broader mission of being a platform for African creatives to tell their stories in ways that inspire and connect us all.
Telling African stories seems to be at the heart of your work. Why is it so crucial for you to bring these narratives to the global stage through your films and TV projects?
African narratives have been underrepresented and misunderstood for too long. It’s crucial because our stories have the power to change perceptions, challenge stereotypes, and inspire a new generation. Bringing these narratives to the global stage helps to reshape the world’s view of Africa, showing the richness and diversity of our cultures.
The media industry is constantly evolving. How do you keep your content fresh and maintain your relevance in such a fast-paced environment?
Staying relevant requires a deep understanding of our audience and a commitment to innovation. We constantly explore new ideas, embrace emerging technologies, and collaborate with fresh talent. Listening to our audience and adapting to their needs keeps our content engaging and impactful.
As EbonyLife Media continues to grow, what are your plans for its future? How do you envision it evolving in the coming years?
The future of EbonyLife Media is about expansion—both in terms of content and reach. We’re looking to diversify our offerings, collaborate with global partners, and continue telling African stories in new and exciting ways. The goal is to cement our place as a leading media powerhouse on the continent and beyond.
Looking forward, what are your hopes for the next generation of African creatives? How do you see them shaping the future of the industry?
I hope the next generation will be bold, innovative, and unapologetically African in their creativity. They have the potential to shape the future of the industry, not just in Africa but globally. I envision them breaking boundaries, challenging norms, and telling stories that resonate universally. Our work at the EbonyLife Creative Academy is pivotal to this.
You’ve achieved so much, but what do you consider your greatest accomplishment, and what makes it stand out for you?
I must qualify this question. My greatest accomplishment in my career has been creating platforms that have amplified African voices. It stands out because it’s about more than just personal success; it’s about leaving a legacy that empowers others to tell their stories.
What does a day in Mo Abudu’s life look like? Please give us a peek into your daily routine.
My days are a blend of meetings, creative brainstorming sessions, and strategic planning. I start early, often with some quiet time for reflection or exercise, and then dive into the day’s work. Each day is different but always driven by purpose and passion. Remember, I am a grandma now; some days, I am just there for my darling grandsons and am dedicated to family, my children, my mother, sisters, and friends. It is important to prioritise as necessary. I think I multitask exceptionally well, even if I say so myself!
People often have misconceptions about public figures. What are some of the biggest myths or misunderstandings about you or your work that you’d like to set straight?
One of the biggest myths is that success comes easily. The truth is, it’s the result of years of hard work, perseverance, and overcoming countless challenges. Another misconception is that media is glamorous; while it has its moments, it’s also incredibly demanding and requires a lot of dedication.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Mo Abudu? Any exciting new projects or ventures on the horizon?
There are always new projects on the horizon! We’re currently working on several exciting film and television projects that will continue to push the boundaries of African storytelling. I’m also passionate about mentoring the next generation, so expect to see more initiatives focused on nurturing young talent.
Turning 60 is a significant milestone. What does this age represent to you, both personally and professionally?
Turning 60 represents a time of wisdom, strength, and a deeper understanding of my purpose. It’s a milestone that signifies what I’ve achieved and what’s still possible. It’s a reminder that there’s always more to explore and more ways to contribute.
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your younger self? Is there anything you wish you could go back and tell the Mo of 20 or 30 years ago?
I’d tell my younger self to be fearless and to trust the journey. Every experience, good or bad, is a stepping stone to something greater. I’d also remind her that it’s okay to take risks and that sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.
Finally, let’s fast-forward to your 100th birthday. What do you hope people will say about Mo Abudu’s legacy on that day?
I hope that when people reflect on my legacy, they see a transformative impact on African storytelling and a deep commitment to showcasing the richness of our continent’s culture on a global stage. Through my work with EbonyLife Media, I aimed to redefine the narrative surrounding Africa, providing a platform where our stories could be told authentically and with pride.
EbonyLife Place, as a luxury entertainment and lifestyle resort in Victoria Island, Lagos, is a key part of that legacy. My vision for EbonyLife Place was to create a space that offers world-class hospitality and entertainment and embodies the spirit of African excellence. With its hotel, diverse range of restaurants, and state-of-the-art cinemas, EbonyLife Place stands as a testament to what is possible when we combine luxury with cultural pride.
Part of my legacy will undoubtedly be the work of the EbonyLife Creative Academy, where we’ve committed to empowering the next generation of
filmmakers and actors by offering them the opportunity to attend our courses free of charge. This initiative is about more than just education—it’s about providing a platform for emerging talent to hone their skills, tell their stories, and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of African cinema. By investing in these creatives, we are ensuring that the future of African storytelling is bright, dynamic, and inclusive.
Looking ahead to my 100th birthday, I want to be remembered for the success of my ventures and the doors they opened for future generations. My legacy will be one of empowerment, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to elevating African culture on the global stage. I want the EbonyLife Group to stand as a symbol of what can be achieved when we dream big and invest in our own stories and people.
