LAGOS, Nigeria – Renowned media entrepreneur and host of #WithChude, Chude Jideonwo, has announced a year-long celebration to mark his 25-year career in the media.
The milestone coincides with his 40th birthday, a remarkable dual celebration for the man whose career began at the tender age of 13 with the publication of his first book.
Jideonwo unveiled the celebrations on Monday, January 6, 2025, with a post across his social media platforms, accompanied by a striking photoshoot by photographer Adedamola Odetara and styled by Swazzi, featuring designs by TI Nathan and Orange Culture.
A Journey of Milestones
Jideonwo’s illustrious career spans diverse roles and landmark achievements:
- 20 years of Red Media Africa, a leader in public relations and youth marketing.
- 19 years of The Future Awards Africa, the continent’s largest youth awards.
- 15 years of YNaija.com, an influential online media platform.
- 5 years of #WithChude, the region’s most-watched weekly talk show.
Reflecting on his career, Jideonwo shared: “This young man from Obomkpa, Delta State, who grew up by the canal in Ijeshatedo, Lagos State—shy, insecure, afraid—has grown up to live a full, deep, rich life. I am so proud of it, I am so thankful for it, and I hope it shows people what is possible.”
Jideonwo also listed his extensive contributions to media, which include roles as a TV host, producer, author, actor, investigative reporter, and media trainer, among others.
The #WithChude Phenomenon
#WithChude has become a cornerstone of African media, celebrated for its candid conversations with the continent’s most prominent figures.
The platform reaches an average of 8 million viewers weekly across terrestrial TV and digital platforms, making it the most-watched and syndicated talk show in the region.
Beyond interviews, WithChude.com offers a subscription-based streaming service featuring films, podcasts, documentaries, and other content aimed at strengthening mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
Its success has cemented Jideonwo’s reputation as a pioneer in independent media.
Future Projects
Jideonwo’s production company, Chude Jideonwo Presents, continues to create impactful factual programming. Upcoming works include:
- Where is Chijioke?
- Is It Your Money?, a four-part docu-series on Nigeria’s former petroleum minister, Diezani Alison-Madueke.
- Award-winning films such as Awaiting Trial and Daniel vs Ekweremadu.
A Legacy of Possibility
Jideonwo’s reflections capture the spirit of his journey: “When people who have seen this journey for the past 25 years exclaim, ‘You’re just turning 40?’ I smile. I have lived many lives, exactly the kind of life I have always wanted to live.”
As he celebrates 25 years of media excellence, Chude Jideonwo stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the boundless possibilities of an audacious vision.
