Mo Abudu – Media/Producer
| Stage Name: | Mo Abudu |
| Real Name: | Mosunmola Abudu |
| Occupation: | Media/Producer |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 11th September 1964 (61 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Ondo State |
| Gender: | Female |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Divorced (Tokunbo Abudu – Husband) |
| Education: | University of Westminster, London |
| Known for: | Media |
Early Life
Mosunmola Abudu, popularly known as Mo Abudu, was born on September 11, 1964, in Hammersmith, West London, to an engineer father and a caterer mother. She is ethnic Yoruba, and her family roots are in Ondo Town, southwest Nigeria. She is the eldest of three sisters in the family. At the tender age of 7, she moved to Nigeria to live with her grandparents, where she spent a significant part of her childhood. She returned to England at the age of 11, where she continued her education.
Educational Background
Mo Abudu attended the Ridgeway School, MidKent College, and West Kent College. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Westminster in London, which has equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate the corporate world. Additionally, she is a member of the British Psychological Society with qualifications in occupational and personality testing, demonstrating her commitment to understanding human behavior and development. In recognition of her contributions to the media industry, she received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (Honouris Causa) from Babcock University in 2014. Furthermore, the University of Westminster awarded her an honorary doctorate degree of Doctor of Arts in 2018, solidifying her status as a media icon.
Career
At the age of 19, Mo Abudu was selected as the brand ambassador for AVON Cosmetics for the African market, marking the beginning of her illustrious career. She started her professional journey as a recruitment consultant in 1987 with the Atlas Recruitment Consultancy firm in the UK. Her exceptional skills and dedication led to her rapid growth, and she returned to Nigeria in 1993, where she was head-hunted by Arthur Andersen to head the Human Resources and Training for oil giant, ExxonMobil. This role showcased her ability to thrive in a male-dominated industry. She later founded Vic Lawrence & Associates Limited, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. Moreover, she conceptualized the Protea Hotel, Oakwood Park, marking the first new-build of its kind for a hotel in Nigeria, demonstrating her innovative approach to business.
Mo Abudu’s passion for media led her to create, produce, and present “Moments with Mo,” a talk show that has become a household name. She later founded EbonyLife Television, a lifestyle network that has revolutionized the African media landscape. Through EbonyLife TV, she has produced several TV drama series, including “Desperate Housewives Africa,” “Sons Of The Caliphate,” “Castle & Castle,” “On the Real,” and “The Governor.” Her production company, EbonyLife Films, has also produced several blockbuster movies, including “Fifty,” “The Wedding Party,” with the likes of Banky W and Adesua Etomi, “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel,” “Chief Daddy,” “Your Excellency,” and “Òlòtūré.” Her most recent production, “Blood Sisters,” is Netflix’s inaugural Nigerian original series, which has gained international recognition.
Awards and Honors
Mo Abudu’s outstanding contributions to the media industry have earned her numerous awards and honors. Forbes Africa has dubbed her “Africa’s Most Successful Woman,” while The Hollywood Reporter has listed her among the “25 Most Powerful Women in Global Television.” She was awarded the Médailles d’Honneur from MIPTV in 2019, a prestigious recognition in the global media industry. In addition, she has received honorary degrees from Babcock University and the University of Westminster, acknowledging her impact on the media landscape. She was listed in the 2020 Powerlist, featuring the Top 100 of the most influential people in the UK of African/African-Caribbean descent. Her most recent honor is the Series Mania Woman in Series Award in 2022, a testament to her dedication to producing high-quality content. In October 2022, she was awarded a National Honour, ‘Officer of the Order of the Niger’ (OON) by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, solidifying her status as a national icon.
Philanthropy and Impact
Mo Abudu’s impact extends beyond the media industry. She is a dedicated philanthropist, committed to empowering women and supporting education. Her foundation, the Mo Abudu Foundation, provides scholarships and mentorship programs for young women, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. Her dedication to giving back to the community has inspired countless individuals, and her influence extends beyond Nigeria to the global African diaspora.
Personal Life
Mo Abudu lives in Lagos, Nigeria, and is a proud mother of two children, a son, and a daughter. Despite her busy schedule, she prioritizes family and is often seen attending high-profile events with her children. She was formerly married to Tokunbo Abudu, and her commitment to her family is evident in her dedication to her children’s well-being.
Net Worth
Mo Abudu’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million, a testament to her hard work and success in the media and entertainment industry. Her production company, EbonyLife TV, has become a household name, and her films have grossed millions of dollars at the box office. Her net worth is a reflection of her dedication to telling African stories and showcasing African talent to the world. You can find her on Instagram.
