Kunle Afolayan debunks misinterpretation, reaffirms strong Netflix ties
Kunle Afolayan clarified comments on Netflix, dismissing claims it may leave Nigeria and reaffirming a strong partnership with the streaming giant.
Misinterpretation of remarks
Afolayan noted that his comments, made during the Zuma Film Festival, were directed at encouraging Nigerian stakeholders to strengthen local distribution platforms. He explained that parts of his statement had been taken out of context, fueling false narratives.
“People can always pick things out of context and push whatever suits their narrative,” Afolayan said. He emphasised his dual role as both a beneficiary and supplier of Netflix content, reinforcing his ongoing collaboration with the platform.
Context at Zuma film festival
During the film festival, Afolayan was responding to a question from Victor Okhai, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s film industry. Okhai had mentioned a rumoured “last supper meal” at a Netflix event in Nigeria, hinting at possible challenges for the platform’s operations in the country.
Afolayan explained that he was absent from the Netflix event due to his mother’s burial and was unaware of any discussions that occurred there. “I wasn’t at that event, so I’m not privy to whatever conversation must have happened,” he clarified.
Instead, he used the occasion to call for self-reliance in the Nigerian film industry. “What I said was a wake-up call for us as a country to strengthen our own distribution platforms, regardless of Netflix’s decisions,” Afolayan stated.
Netflix’s structural adjustments
Afolayan also addressed Netflix’s recent global strategy changes. He acknowledged that the platform has reduced its volume of original content production but assured that it remains committed to the Nigerian market.
“The last time they were here, we had meetings. They reassured us that they’re still here and will continue to work with us, but they might not be able to produce the same volume as before,” Afolayan said.
His message was clear: the Nigerian film industry must seize the opportunity to create alternative distribution platforms. “Even if Netflix isn’t doing as much as it used to, why shouldn’t we, as a country, build our own systems?” he asked.
Refuting negative narratives
Afolayan rejected attempts to twist his statements into claims of Netflix abandoning Nigeria. He reiterated that his comments were intended to inspire action, not spread panic.
“If you look at the video, I never said Netflix is leaving Nigeria. Dr. Okhai posed the question, and I concluded by saying, ‘If they’re leaving, we need to wake up.’ It’s a wake-up call for us to set up our own platforms,” Afolayan explained.
He reaffirmed Netflix’s importance as a key partner for him and other Nigerian filmmakers, highlighting the platform’s significant contributions to the industry.
Netflix’s commitment to Nigeria
Netflix also weighed in, issuing a statement to reaffirm its dedication to the Nigerian creative scene. The company pledged to “continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight its members.”
This reassurance aligns with Afolayan’s remarks, underscoring the company’s ongoing presence in Nigeria despite its strategic shifts.
Call for industry growth
Kunle Afolayan’s comments ultimately reflect a broader vision for the Nigerian film industry. While maintaining strong ties with global platforms like Netflix, he urged local stakeholders to invest in homegrown solutions.
By building robust distribution networks, the industry can reduce dependence on external entities and create sustainable growth. His message was not one of alarm but of empowerment—a call for collective effort to secure the future of Nigerian cinema.
In a fast-changing entertainment landscape, Afolayan’s perspective offers a balanced approach. By embracing collaboration with global partners while developing local capacities, the Nigerian film industry can thrive both locally and internationally.
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