Mansa has launched a new vertical streaming feature in Nigeria, marking its entry into one of Africa’s fastest growing entertainment markets. The smartphone focused format delivers serialised dramas in episodes lasting between 60 and 120 seconds, structured around cliffhangers to encourage continued viewing. Users can access the content directly within the Mansa app without the need for a Virtual Private Network, discover new titles and rewatch favourites, while local studios and writers are able to monetise their productions on the platform.
The feature operates on a hybrid model that allows viewers to watch a limited number of episodes for free before unlocking additional content through bundled in app coin purchases. Pricing is localised by region and structured across multiple tiers. In Nigeria, payments are processed through Flutterwave, with the company also exploring partnerships with telecommunications operators to enable smoother billing options. Revenue from coin purchases is shared with creators, with participation levels determined by individual project agreements.
Mansa’s expansion comes as Nigeria’s entertainment and media industry is projected to generate 4.9 billion dollars in revenue by 2026, according to the PwC Nigeria Economic Outlook. The company says it is positioning itself to tap into Nollywood’s production capacity and the spending power of local audiences, while also serving the global diaspora connected to Nigerian culture. Unlike social media platforms such as TikTok, Mansa describes its approach as studio produced storytelling supported by direct monetisation rather than advertising driven distribution.
Founded in 2021 by David Oyelowo and Nate Parker, the company raised 8 million dollars in April 2023 to support its growth strategy. The vertical feature debuts with “The Heiress, The Baller and The Secret Society,” a 27 episode romantic thriller, with additional original titles planned throughout the year. Mansa says intellectual property ownership varies by project, with some creators retaining rights while granting distribution access, and others entering co production arrangements where rights are shared.