Mo Abudu

Mosunmola Abudu (born September 11, 1964), widely known as Mo Abudu, is a Nigerian media mogul, television producer, talk show host, and philanthropist. She is recognized as one of the most significant figures in African media and entertainment, particularly as the founder and CEO of Ebonylife Media, a multi-platform organization spanning television, film, and digital platforms. Early Life and Education Mo Abudu was born in Hammersmith, West London, United Kingdom. She spent her early years in London before moving back to Nigeria at age seven, where she lived in Lagos until she was 11. Following the death of her father, she returned to the UK. She attended The Ridgeway School, MidKent College, and West Kent College, eventually obtaining a master's degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Westminster in London. Career Progression Abudu’s professional career began in the UK. She worked as a recruitment consultant before moving to the aviation sector where she worked with Esso Exploration & Production Nigeria Limited as the Head of Human Resources and Administration for 13 years. In 2006, Abudu ventured into media by creating and hosting *Moments with Mo*, a widely successful daily talk show and the first of its kind to be syndicated across Africa. In 2013, she launched Ebonylife TV, a global black entertainment and lifestyle network, which became Africa’s first global black entertainment channel. The channel expanded her media influence and positioned her as a powerhouse in content creation. Subsequently, she expanded her company into film production with EbonyLife Films, which has produced several box-office successes. Major Achievements and Notable Works Abudu’s notable works include the production of several high-grossing Nigerian films such as *Fifty* (2015), *The Wedding Party* (2016), and *Chief Daddy* (2018). Her production company, EbonyLife Films, has been instrumental in raising the quality and global visibility of Nigerian cinema. She has forged landmark partnerships, notably with international powerhouses like Netflix, leading to global co-productions, and with Sony Pictures Television, for the production of three projects, including a TV series based on the life of the King of Dahomey. Her influence has earned her numerous accolades, including being named Forbes Africa’s Business Woman of the Year in March 2024. She has consistently been recognized in international lists, such as The Hollywood Reporter's "25 Most Powerful Women in Global Television" and CNN's "25 Most Powerful Women in Global TV." Current Status Mo Abudu continues to serve as the CEO of EbonyLife Media, driving the expansion of African storytelling on a global scale. In March 2024, she joined the board of directors for the International Emmys, further cementing her status as a leading global media executive. She is based in Lagos, Nigeria.