Nigeria’s entertainment and media (E&M) industry is projected to generate $4.9 billion in revenues in 2026, up from approximately $4.5 billion in 2025, according to the 2026 PwC Nigeria Economic Outlook. The forecast reflects continued growth in digital content, streaming services, online video‑on‑demand, and other media‑driven platforms that are reshaping how Nigerians consume entertainment.
The PwC report identifies digital adoption including higher smartphone penetration, more affordable mobile internet and wider use of digital payment systems as a key driver of sector expansion, particularly among Gen Z and millennial audiences. This shift is contributing to rising revenues from over‑the‑top (OTT) video services, music streaming, radio, podcasts and cinema.
Industry analysts note that Nigeria’s large, youthful population and the growth of mobile‑first content consumption are central to the E&M market’s momentum. These demographic and digital trends are expected to sustain revenue increases by enhancing monetisation opportunities for both traditional media and emerging digital formats.
Despite the positive outlook, the report cautions that infrastructure constraints notably broadband gaps and persistent power supply challenges continue to limit the sector’s full potential. Addressing these bottlenecks, along with improving investment in content production and distribution, could further accelerate growth beyond 2026.
The projected expansion highlights Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s fastest‑growing entertainment and media markets, building on Nollywood’s global influence and the worldwide popularity of Afrobeats and digital content creation.
