After streaming a few movies, the American service showed its first major commitment by buying the worldwide rights for Genevieve Nnaji’s movie 'Lionheart.' It was the first original Nollywood film to be bought by the American movie streaming platform.
Since then, Netflix has been gradually gaining more ground in Nigeria by constantly acquiring more local content including its first Nollywood Tv series.
Compared to a few years ago when there were only a couple of local movies on the streaming service, a quick search now reveals over 20 films.
Netflix increases investment in Nigeria
The latest proof of the platform's growing commitment to Nollywood is the company's decision to start billing its Nigerian subscribers in Naira.
Announcing the news in an email sent to customers , the company stated, "We will be switching to billing all members in Nigeria in Nigerian naira. This change is part of our ongoing work to improve Netflix for our members in Nigeria."
By doing this, Nigerian users no longer have to worry about devaluation of Naira as they will not be affected by the fluctuation in forex markets.
Netflix offers three streaming video plans; $7.99 (N2,896), $9.99 (N3,621) and $12.14 (N4,400) per month. This new billing system starts on Tuesday, January 21, 2020.
Sources also say the platform is also working on having a social media presence in Nigeria.
Ghana is not let out
While Netflix is increasing its commitment to Nollywood, the platform is also showing a keen interest in Ghana's movie industry, also known as 'Ghallywood' or 'Gollywood.'
Two Ghana movies - ‘Keteke’ and ‘Side Chick Gang’ are coming to the platform on Friday, January 31, 2020.
