The Story⚡
From launching Nigeria’s first purpose-built Protea Hotel to building a global media empire, Mo Abudu proves it’s never too late to dream big.
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At 40, with no prior experience in hospitality or media, Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu embarked on a remarkable journey driven by passion, purpose, and faith. Over the past two decades, she has transformed Nigeria’s creative landscape, establishing herself as a trailblazer in African storytelling and a global ambassador for Nollywood.
Her journey began in 2005 with the opening of Protea Hotel Oakwood Park, Nigeria’s first purpose-built Protea Hotel, marking her bold entry into hospitality. That same year, she launched Moments with Mo, Africa’s first daily syndicated talk show. Hosting inspiring guests, the show became a continental phenomenon, later evolving into Moments and Moments Z with co-hosts across Africa, cementing Abudu’s place as a media pioneer.
At 49, Abudu founded EbonyLife TV, a global Black channel rooted in Nigeria. The network delivered culture-defining shows like The Spot, EL Now, The Governor, Castle & Castle, Ojo’s in the House, and Desperate Housewives Africa, showcasing African stories with universal appeal.
A year later, at 50, she launched EbonyLife Films with the acclaimed FIFTY. The production house went on to produce box-office hits like The Wedding Party, Chief Daddy, Your Excellency, Oloture, and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, elevating Nollywood’s global profile.
In 2018, at 53, Abudu unveiled EbonyLife Place Lagos, Nigeria’s first luxury entertainment resort. The complex, housing The White Orchid Hotel, Turaka, Jinja, and EbonyLife Cinemas, redefined experiential entertainment in Nigeria.
Three years later, at 56, she established the EbonyLife Creative Academy, a world-class institution training the next generation of African filmmakers and actors, ensuring a lasting legacy of creative excellence.
By 58, Abudu ventured into directing with Mo Abudu Films, writing and directing Her Perfect Life and Iyawo Mi. Both films earned Oscar consideration and were selected for prestigious festivals, including Cannes Short Film Corner, HollyShorts, and Martha’s Vineyard. That same year, she expanded her vision to the UK with EbonyLife Place London, the first African cinema in the UK and a hub for African film, fashion, food, and culture.
Reflecting on her journey, Abudu credits her success to faith, bold vision, and relentless teamwork. “Every chapter was a leap of faith,” she says, emphasizing the importance of building the right teams and trusting in a higher purpose. At 60, she shows no signs of slowing down, teasing more ambitious projects to come. Her message to others is clear: “Be bold. Be relentless. Be obsessed with your vision.”
Abudu’s story is a testament to defying limitations, proving that age is no barrier to transforming industries. From hospitality to television, film, education, and cultural hubs, her multifaceted career has not only reshaped Nollywood but also positioned African storytelling as a global force.
In Summary
Mo Abudu’s 20-year journey inspires a new era for Nollywood, demonstrating the power of vision and resilience. By blending cultural pride with global ambition, Abudu is building a legacy that empowers Nollywood to compete on the world stage, proving that bold dreams, backed by faith and teamwork, can redefine an industry and inspire generations.
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