Media entrepreneur, journalist, storyteller and host of #WithChude, Chude Jideonwo, has won a Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Award, receiving recognition at a gathering of some of Nigeria’s most respected voices in broadcasting and media. Reflecting on the honour, Jideonwo expressed his gratitude at being recognised in the presence of media icons including veteran broadcaster Bimbo Oloyede, media entrepreneur Soni Irabor, Professor Pat Utomi and broadcaster Bisi Olatilo. He described the award as a deeply meaningful milestone in his career and an opportunity to celebrate the people whose work has helped shape Nigeria’s media landscape.
For Jideonwo, the occasion held particular significance because the award was presented by Lekan Ogunbanwo, a broadcasting figure he had admired since childhood. “I grew up in awe of the legendary Mr Lekan Ogunbanwo — to have this award presented by him is a beautiful privilege,” he wrote. Although unable to receive the award in person, Jideonwo expressed appreciation to Seun Oluyemi, who accepted it on his behalf. Oluyemi also received the Producer of the Year award for his work producing Rubbin’ Minds, the influential television programme he has produced for 14 years. Jideonwo described the recognition as richly deserved.
The award adds to Jideonwo’s work across media, storytelling and entrepreneurship, including his work building platforms that create space for important conversations about people, society and culture. Through #WithChude, his work continues to explore the human experiences behind public identities, while his broader career reflects a commitment to using media to inform, connect and inspire.
