[MOVIES] What happened to web series in Nigeria?

Web series were still a big deal as recently as 2018, but what happened to them?What Happened to Web Series in Nigeria?[DALL·E 2025]

There was a time in Nigeria when web series were all the rage. Platforms like Ndani TV and RED TV brought us unforgettable gems such as Skinny Girl in Transit, The Men’s Club, Game On, Phases, Our Best Friend’s Wedding, and Assistant Madams, keeping fans hooked every week, eagerly awaiting the Friday noon drop.

But in recent times, the once-thriving web series scene seems to have lost its spark.

What changed in the world of web content, and why aren’t we seeing the same buzz around new series today?

The mid-2010s marked the rise of web series in Nigeria, with platforms like Ndani TV and RED TV transforming entertainment by delivering relatable, high-quality content directly to YouTube.

The shows became hugely popular.

One standout was Ndani TV’s Skinny Girl in Transit (SGIT), which premiered in 2015 and quickly became a beloved part of Nigerian pop culture.

The story of Tiwalade, a young woman navigating the complexities of life, love, and societal expectations, struck a chord with audiences. Fans eagerly anticipated each new episode, discussing plot twists on social media and passionately supporting their favorite characters.

RED TV’s Assistant Madams

Assistant Madams brought a fresh perspective to storytelling with its exploration of the high-flying lives of Lagos women. It was bold, glamorous, and unapologetically Nigerian.

The show’s slick production values and engaging storylines kept viewers hooked.

The Anticipation Culture

One key factor that drove the success of these web series was the anticipation culture.

Fans knew exactly when a new episode would drop and made it a ritual to tune in.

Fridays at noon became a communal experience; viewers would gather online, comment, and engage in conversations about the latest developments.

The Decline: What Changed?

Fast forward to today, and the Nigerian web series scene feels different.

While web series still exist, they don’t seem to have the same cultural impact. Several factors have contributed to this shift.

1. The rise of streaming platforms

The emergence of global streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Showmax has changed the way Nigerians consume content.

These platforms offer a wide array of movies and series, both local and international, creating more competition for attention.

With these platforms producing original Nigerian content, viewers have more choices than ever before, making it harder for web series on YouTube to maintain dominance.

2. Audience behavior changes

Viewer behavior has evolved over the years. The rise of binge-watching culture, fueled by Netflix and other platforms, has made audiences less patient with weekly episodic releases.

Today’s viewers prefer to consume an entire season in one sitting, which conflicts with the traditional web series release model of weekly drops.

3. Social Media Overload

In the past, social media played a crucial role in amplifying the buzz around web series. Today, however, the social media landscape is far more saturated.

With influencers, skit makers, and TikTok creators dominating timelines, web series often get lost in the noise. Additionally, the absence of targeted promotional strategies on newer platforms like TikTok has limited the reach of these shows.

Are There Still Great Web Series Out There?

Definitely! While the buzz isn’t as widespread as it once was, Nigeria is still producing quality web series. Recent examples include Just Us Girls and Bottomline.

Despite their high quality, these shows don’t seem to generate the same level of anticipation or cultural conversation that Skinny Girl in Transit did.

What’s Next?

Although the golden age of web series feels like a thing of the past, there’s hope for a revival in Nigeria.

Things have changed, but the demand for relatable Nigerian stories is as strong as ever. By adapting to new platforms, rethinking monetization strategies, and focusing on quality storytelling, Nigerian web series could once again become a cultural cornerstone.