Chude Jideonwo Makes History with Africa’s First Talk Concert, #WithChude Live, in Lagos
In a defining moment for African storytelling and live events, renowned media entrepreneur and celebrated storyteller Chude Jideonwo hosted Africa’s first-ever talk concert, #WithChude Live, in Lagos, Nigeria. Held before an audience of more than 5,000 guests, the event was an unforgettable evening of vulnerability, truth, and emotional depth — the kind rarely seen in mainstream entertainment.
A Night of Connection, Vulnerability, and Healing
The atmosphere at the venue was electric as guests packed the hall, eager to witness an innovative blend of heartfelt conversations and live storytelling. Designed to go beyond entertainment, #WithChude Live delivered moments that stirred minds, moved hearts, and opened up new spaces for truth-telling in African media.
Powerful Conversations with Nigeria’s Brightest Stars
The night featured two major panel conversations, each bringing together some of Nigeria’s most beloved public figures. One panel saw music star Teni, comedy sensations Taaooma and Kiekie share the stage, offering candid reflections on fame, pressure, and purpose. The second panel featured celebrated actress Ruth Kadiri, media personality Hauwa Lawal, and gospel artist Moses Bliss, who explored faith, resilience, and vulnerability in a world that often demands perfection.
In addition to the panels, Chude sat down for deeply personal interviews with notable Nigerian icons including Falz, Bovi, Funke Akindele, Jerry Eze, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Each interview was a masterclass in storytelling, bringing raw emotion and hard-earned wisdom to life on stage.
Exclusive Reading from Chude’s Upcoming Memoir
One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Chude read an excerpt from his upcoming memoir, “How Depression Saved My Life”, set for release in September 2025. In the excerpt, he shared the honest truth that personal transformation isn’t always immediate or glamorous — a reflection that resonated deeply with the crowd.
He followed the reading with a heartfelt poem from the book, offering further insight into his ongoing journey with healing and mental health. The raw honesty of his words held the room in a deep emotional embrace, underlining the power of storytelling to break silence and build community.
A Glamorous Beginning, a Soulful Experience
The event opened with a vibrant red carpet session, attended by top celebrities, media personalities, and dignitaries from across Nigeria. Interviews, fashion statements, and flashing cameras added a layer of glamour, but the heart of the night remained focused on the authentic conversations that followed.
There were no distractions, no filler — just deep, engaging dialogue that kept every guest seated and every heart engaged. From laughter to tears to shared silences, #WithChude Live redefined what it means to gather as a community.
A New Era for Live Events in Africa
More than just a media event, #WithChude Live was a cultural moment — a historic first that introduced a new genre of live performance to Africa: the talk concert. It delivered on its promise to be a “beautiful day for the mind, spirit, and heart,” leaving a lasting impression on every attendee.
As one guest reflected after the event, “Be humble with your God-given grace” — a reminder of the humility, strength, and faith that defined the night.
Chude Jideonwo has once again shown that storytelling, when done with heart and intention, can shift culture. And with the resounding success of #WithChude Live, the future of African media just got a little brighter — and a lot more human.
