John Ugbe is a renowned Nigerian business executive and technology leader, best known as the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria, the leading pay-television company in the country. Born on March 8, Ugbe has been influential in transforming Nigeria’s media and entertainment landscape over more than twenty years. He also served as the 14th Chairman of the Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria (BON) from October 2021 to November 2023.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | John Ugbe |
| Date of Birth | March 8 |
| Place of Birth | Nigeria (raised in Calabar, Cross River State) |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Cross River State (inferred) |
| Spouse | Married |
| Children | Two sons |
| Occupations | Business Executive, Technology Leader, CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Early Life and Education
Raised in Calabar, Cross River State, John Ugbe grew up in a family where his father was a civil servant and his mother a teacher, which fostered his academic ambitions.
He earned a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). Later, he completed an MBA at the University of Liverpool.
Ugbe is a fellow and member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (fNIEEE), Nigerian Institute of Brand Management (fNIBM), Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE), and Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM).
Career
Ugbe began his professional journey in 1998 at MultiChoice Nigeria as a help desk analyst.
Over the years, he gained experience in technology and telecommunications, working at companies like Agip, Halliburton, and NCR. After starting as an engineer at MultiChoice, he rose to IT manager before leaving the company in 2003.
Between 2003 and 2006, he served as IT Manager and later General Manager at MWEB Nigeria. He also held a leadership role at iWayAfrica Nigeria before returning to MultiChoice in 2011 as Managing Director.
His tenure saw significant achievements, including launching local-language channels on Africa Magic, introducing the affordable GOtv platform, establishing the MultiChoice Talent Factory, and creating the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
His “Sabi Men” initiative notably helped over 10,000 Nigerian youths find employment.
In 2018, Ugbe was promoted to CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria. Under his leadership, the company has supported Nollywood with substantial annual film budgets and expanded its influence in African entertainment.
Personal Life
John Ugbe is married with two sons. He met his wife during their National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation in Lagos. Beyond his corporate role, Ugbe has a passion for art and fashion design, having sold paintings in his youth and expressing interest in returning to fashion.
John Ugbe Net Worth
Although John Ugbe’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, his position as CEO of MultiChoice Nigeria—a company that contributes about 34% of the MultiChoice Group’s revenue—indicates significant financial success.
Legal Issues and Controversies
In 2025, Ugbe and other MultiChoice executives faced legal challenges from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for allegedly violating consumer protection laws by increasing subscription prices despite a regulatory directive to maintain current pricing.
The executives are scheduled for arraignment in October 2025 on charges including obstructing the FCCPC’s investigation.
Additionally, in 2024, MultiChoice Group settled a $37.3 million tax dispute with the Nigerian government, resolving prior conflicts with tax authorities.
Awards and Honors
John Ugbe has been recognized for his leadership and contributions to the media industry.
He won the “CEO of the Year (Media & Entertainment)” at the 2020 BrandCom Awards and received two honors at the 2018 Brand Power Golden Icon Awards for thought leadership and youth empowerment.
His election as BON Chairman and initiatives like The Nigeria Broadcasting Award (TNBA) further highlight his influence.
Ugbe’s efforts in promoting African storytelling through the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards have earned him acclaim as a key figure in the growth of African entertainment.
