Pioneered by the enterprising Jason Njoku, the Iroko brand has continually redefined the digital landscape for Nigerian cinema, also known as Nollywood. Barely five years old, Iroko has been hailed as “Nigeria’s Netflix,” delivering over 5,000 Nollywood movies through diverse subscription plans to Nigerians all over the world.
However, the focus today is not on this streaming giant but on Iroko’s newest offering – IrokoX. This online platform is set to revolutionize the African talent landscape by giving practically anyone the opportunity to showcase their gifts to audiences across the continent.
As explained by IrokoX General Manager, Oluchi Enuha, the platform will run on an 80/20 split revenue share model for most users, with artists pocketing a whopping 80 percent of the earnings. Comparing it to characteristics of the reputable Maker Studios, Enuha shared that “IrokoX aims at enabling Africa’s professional and semi-professional creators to produce high-quality digital content, promote it, share it with larger audiences, and earn from their creativity”.
Harnessing partnerships with industry leaders such as YouTube, iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify, IrokoX empowers content creators to create short 3-5 minute videos accessible to a previously unreachable global audience. This access bridges the funding gaps that often limit dissemination to key markets.
How does it work?
Prospective participants create and submit high-quality videos after creating an online account. If approved, the content is broadcast across IrokoX’s network. Participants are then provided with performance reports and, depending on the success of their product, can expect remuneration. The platform thus incentivizes the production of top-tier content that appeals to global audiences.
Already, notable Nigerian musicians like Flavour, Bracket, P-Squre, and Tiwa Savage are leveraging on the services of IrokoX. Their participation is a testament to the potential this platform offers for global reach and financial benefits.
iROKO Partners, the parent organization of IrokoX, was co-founded by Jason Njoku and Bastian Gotter in London. The entrepreneurial duo secured a funding of $35 million to launch the company in 2010.
IrokoX’s move to prioritize fair compensation for content creators comes at a time when the European government is scuffling with platforms like YouTube and Dailymotion over adequate remuneration for creators. This validates IrokoX’s forward-thinking approach to engaging and rewarding African creatives.
In conclusion, IrokoX is the latest launchpad for upcoming talents dreaming of a glocal (global and local) stage. Are you one such creator? Gear up and start using IrokoX to distribute your content to new horizons far and wide. Once you embark on this journey, share your experience by emailing admin@techbooky.com for a chance of your review being published.