Mo Abudu’s inclusion in TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025 isn’t just another well-earned trophy in her cabinet, it’s a global nod to the power of African storytelling and the work of a woman who has made it her life’s mission to shift narratives and elevate voices across the continent.
As the Founder and CEO of EbonyLife Group, Mo Abudu has redefined what it means to tell African stories, not just to local audiences, but to the world. From record-breaking Nollywood blockbusters like The Wedding Party and Chief Daddy to acclaimed Netflix collaborations such as Blood Sisters and Elesin Oba, her work has consistently proven that African stories are not only worth telling—they’re worth celebrating globally.
Her spot on the TIME100 list is backed by more than a track record of media milestones, it’s anchored in impact. TIME describes the annual list as a celebration of individuals whose influence is reshaping the world. In Mo Abudu’s case, that influence is deeply rooted in her vision for media that represents Africa with depth, dignity, and diversity.
Interestingly, British actor and producer Idris Elba penned the official TIME tribute for Abudu. In it, he praised her relentless drive and visionary spirit, calling her a “super-connector” and “game changer” who has worked tirelessly to create access and infrastructure for African creatives, especially through her platforms and partnerships.
Elba, who has collaborated with Mo on the Afro Film Fund, emphasized her role in creating an ecosystem where the next generation of filmmakers can rise. The $50 million Afro Film Fund, announced last year, is a joint initiative between EbonyLife and Green Door Pictures (Elba’s company) that’s aimed at developing authentic African stories and connecting them with global distribution channels.
In his words:
“Mo is creating pathways, not just projects. She’s a force to be reckoned with, and the world is finally taking proper notice.”
Her TIME100 recognition couldn’t come at a more symbolic moment. Abudu recently announced the launch of EbonyLife Place London, a bold cultural and creative hub set to open in Q4 2025. The space, located in the heart of London, will host everything from African film screenings and fashion exhibitions to music showcases and artist talks. Its purpose? To provide a home for African creatives to express, collaborate, and monetize their talents on a world stage, unapologetically.
“This moment isn’t just about me,” Abudu said in her Instagram announcement. “It’s about Nigerian passion, African creativity, and the power of storytelling to shape culture, shift perception, and drive real impact.”
In response to her global recognition, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu released an official statement celebrating Abudu as a “cultural ambassador” whose work continues to bring pride to the nation. He praised her for “making space for Africa’s creative economy on the global map” and reaffirmed the government’s support for platforms that amplify Nigerian excellence.
Beyond her media empire, Abudu is also reshaping the future through initiatives like the EbonyLife Creative Academy, a Lagos-based film school that provides free training to aspiring filmmakers and content creators. It’s all part of a broader mission to build capacity, break barriers, and leave behind a blueprint for sustainable growth in the African media industry.
With all she’s achieved, and all she’s still building, Mo Abudu’s TIME100 moment is far more than a personal honor. It’s a reminder that African stories belong everywhere. That our narratives matter. And that the world is finally listening. And to that, we say: it’s about time.
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