Meet Chude Jideonwo: A Pioneering Force in Nigerian Media and Social Change

Chude Jideonwo, born on March 16, 1985, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a multifaceted personality in the realms of media, filmmaking, and entrepreneurship. Renowned as a TV host, filmmaker, and media entrepreneur, Jideonwo has left an indelible mark on various aspects of Nigerian and African media landscapes. His career spans over two decades, during which he has co-founded influential organizations like Red Africa and Joy, Inc., and spearheaded numerous impactful communication campaigns.

Early Life and Education

Born to Ifeanyi S. Jideonwo and Ngozi A. Jideonwo, Chude had his primary education at K. Kotun Memorial Primary School and his secondary education at Adebola Baptist High School and Mayflower School, Ikenne. His academic journey continued at the University of Lagos, where he studied Law and was called to the Nigerian Bar in November 2007. Furthering his education, Jideonwo earned a Master's degree in Media and Communications from Pan-African University, Lagos.

Career Beginnings and TV Presence

Jideonwo's career in media began as a TV presenter on NTA. He later worked as a researcher with "Celebrating Jesus" (MBI) and "Inside Out with Agatha," a popular TV show hosted by Agatha Amata. Here, he met Adebola Williams, with whom he later co-founded Red Africa. His role as an associate producer on "New Dawn" airing on the NTA Network, along with his appearances on shows like "The Academy," "Patito's Gang," and "Rubbin' Minds," further solidified his presence in the Nigerian media space.

In 2004, while working on "New Dawn with Funmi Iyanda," Jideonwo launched "Youth Talk" on the NTA network. This experience led to the formation and registration of the RedSTRAT in 2005. Over the years, his works have been featured on notable TV channels including Channels TV, Rave TV, Wazobia Max TV, GOTV, StarTimes, and DSTV. His show, #WithChude, has featured prominent personalities like Joke Silva, Jim Iyke, and Kemi Afolabi.

Print Media and Journalism

In July 2009, Jideonwo joined the defunct NEXT Newspapers, where he served as an editorial board member and copy editor. He also ran a column titled "Sons and Daughters" in the Sunday edition of The Guardian, profiling the children of Nigeria’s elite.

Entrepreneurship and Impact

Chude Jideonwo is a visionary entrepreneur, having co-founded Red Africa and Joy, Inc. Red Africa, a leading media content and consulting company in Africa, including brands such as The Future Awards Africa, Red Media Africa, StateCraft, Inc., and YNaija. Through StateCraft Inc., Jideonwo led communication campaigns for Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 and Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2016.

Joy, Inc. is a teaching and media company focusing on human flourishing. It partners with organizations like the Ford Motor Company and the Lagos State Government to build safe, supportive spaces, especially for young people dealing with mental health challenges. All profits from Joy, Inc. are invested in The Joy Hubs, co-working spaces and walk-in centers aimed at tackling issues like depression and anxiety.

Awards and Recognitions

Jideonwo's contributions have earned him numerous accolades:

Forbes 30 Under 30: Africa's Best Young Entrepreneurs (2013)

CNBC Young Business Leader of the Year

Archbishop Desmond Tutu Fellow

World Fellow at Yale University

Greenberg Fellow at Yale University (2017)

Tutu Leadership Programme Fellow (2018)

Pulse Influencer Awards for Podcast Influencer of the Year (2023)

Nominations at the Africa International Film Festival and Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for his documentary "Awaiting Trial" (2022, 2023)

Teaching and Advisory Roles

Jideonwo also imparts his knowledge as an adjunct faculty member at the School of Public Policy and Governance at Pan Atlantic University. His leadership extends to board memberships at Microsoft 4Afrika, the Oando Foundation, WaterEase, and RED.

Current Ventures

As of recent, Jideonwo continues to innovate and lead through his roles at Joy, Inc., and Red Media Africa. He is the executive producer and host of #WithChude, a multimedia series of conversations and investigations. Additionally, he directs #ChudeExplains, a series of films focusing on social justice and culture.

Chude Jideonwo's career is a testament to his dedication to media excellence and social impact. From his early days in TV to his current roles in various entrepreneurial ventures, Jideonwo remains a pivotal figure in shaping narratives and fostering change across Africa. His work continues to inspire and uplift, making him a beacon of progress and innovation in the continent's media and social spheres.