MultiChoice Nigeria enters new chapter as Kemi Omotosho takes over from Ugbe

MultiChoice Nigeria has announced the appointment of Kemi Omotosho as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing to a close the tenure of long-serving CEO, John Ugbe.

In a statement on Monday, the pay-TV company said Omotosho will assume office in January 2026, following Ugbe’s retirement after nearly 15 years at the helm of the Nigerian operation.

Ugbe is credited with steering MultiChoice Nigeria through significant changes in the pay-TV and media landscape, including shifts in consumer behaviour, digital disruption and heightened competition. The company said the leadership transition was carefully planned to ensure operational continuity and stability.

Omotosho brings more than two decades of experience spanning media, telecommunications and digital services across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. She has held several senior roles within the MultiChoice Group, including Executive Head of Customer Value Management in Nigeria and Group Executive Head of Customer Value Management for the Rest of Africa.

Before her appointment, she served as Regional Director for Southern Africa, overseeing MultiChoice’s operations across seven countries.

Reacting to her appointment, Omotosho described Nigeria as a key market for the group and pledged to build on existing strengths.

“It is an honour to be entrusted with the leadership of MultiChoice Nigeria at this time. Nigeria remains one of the Group’s most strategic and dynamic markets,” she said.

“I look forward to working closely with our teams and partners to strengthen our connection with customers, promote local storytelling and the creative economy, and build a resilient, future-focused organisation.”

MultiChoice Nigeria, which was acquired last year by French media giant Canal+, said the change in leadership aligns with its long-term strategy as it positions itself for sustained growth in a rapidly evolving media environment.