Mo Abudu, the founder of EbonyLife Group, has officially acquired a property on Wandsworth Road in London, paving the way for the launch of EbonyLife Place London in the fourth quarter of 2025. This development is poised to become the first cultural and creative hub of its kind in the city, offering a platform for African creatives to showcase their talents and connect with global audiences.
Strategically located just minutes from the West End and near the iconic new American Embassy, the building boasts stunning views of the city skyline. EbonyLife Place London promises to be a vibrant celebration of African film, theatre, music, food, art, and fashion, serving as a “true home for African storytelling and talent to thrive on the global stage,” according to Abudu.
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The multi-faceted venue will feature an array of offerings designed to elevate African creativity and foster international opportunities. Highlights include:
EbonyLife Cinemas London
A 180-seater theatre dedicated to the theatrical release of African films, with a special focus on Nollywood productions. This marks the first African cinema in London, a historic milestone for the diaspora and film enthusiasts alike. With this cinema, EbonyLife can join the list of UK cinemas to acquire licenses to Hollywood movies as well as give more opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their films to international audiences.
Other highlights include Turaka London, which will be the London branch of the Turaka restaurant inside EbonyLife Lagos, bringing the rich, bold flavours of Nigerian cuisine to the heart of the city, a dedicated space for African artists to display their work and engage with a global audience, and a curated concession area spotlighting the continent’s most innovative and exciting fashion brands.
EbonyLife Place London will also serve as a live music venue to amplify the voices of emerging artists from Africa and its diaspora. It will also serve as a platform for African theatre, masterclasses, seminars and workshops. Year-round knowledge-sharing sessions to empower creatives.
Abudu also said it will serve as a collaborative hub for professionals to connect, create, and grow their careers in the UK and a bridge to global opportunities.
EbonyLife Place Lagos, the luxury lifestyle and entertainment place, officially opened its doors on December 1, 2020. This marked the launch of the physical venue in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria, as a premium destination featuring restaurants, a cinema, and event spaces.
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According to FilmOne’s 2024 reports, Ebonylife Cinemas became the highest-grossing cinema location in Anglo West Africa raking over N838 million in box office revenue. The cinema’s total admission was reported at over 138,000, a 5 percent market share contribution in the territory admissions.
The London hub is expected to become a vital link between African talent and the global creative industry, fostering collaboration and innovation.
