Media entrepreneur, journalist, storyteller and founder of #WithChude, Chude Jideonwo, will be delivering a keynote address at the inaugural Niger Delta Creative Industry Expo (ND CRE8 EX 2026), scheduled to take place from December 1 to 5, 2026, in Asaba, Delta State. Jideonwo will speak at the Opening Conference on Tuesday, December 1, joining creatives, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and industry leaders from across Nigeria and beyond for conversations about the future of the creative economy. His invitation recognises his extensive experience building media businesses, developing creative platforms and contributing to the growth of Africa’s media and storytelling industries.
The five-day expo is designed to bring together the people, ideas, resources and opportunities needed to strengthen the Niger Delta’s creative ecosystem. Under the theme “Empowering Creativity, Unlocking Opportunities,” the event will feature keynote addresses, high-level panel discussions, creative industry conversations, masterclasses, a Creators Bootcamp, exhibitions, technology and artificial intelligence sessions, business development programmes and networking opportunities. Its focus spans several creative sectors, including film and television, music, fashion, digital content creation, photography, design, comedy, radio and podcast production. The programme also aims to connect emerging talent with brands, investors, markets and institutions that can support the development of sustainable creative businesses.
Jideonwo’s participation comes at a time when conversations around the commercial potential of Africa’s creative industries are becoming increasingly important. Having built and led media ventures and platforms that have amplified African stories and voices, his experience offers a valuable perspective on the intersection of creativity, entrepreneurship, storytelling and sustainable business development. ND CRE8 EX 2026 seeks to position the Niger Delta as a stronger destination for creative enterprise, innovation and cultural expression, bringing together talent from across the region’s nine states. His keynote contribution will form part of the opening conversations setting the tone for five days of learning, collaboration and opportunity for the region’s creative community.
