Veteran Nigerian journalist Chude Jideonwo recently announced a series of activities he is set to embark on in preparation for his 40th birthday. An interview with ace actress and producer, Omoni Oboli has gone viral.
An excerpt of the interview where Chude was on the other side while Omoni fired the question has got people talking. During the conversation, Chude spoke about his first book, fighting depression and “Hitting Rock Bottom” financially.
The veteran journalist and co-founder of YNaija shared how he published his first book at the age of 13, and ever since it’s been one milestone achievement to the next.
He also opened up about being a very shy person, and the only time he lets go of his fears is when he stands in front of a camera as a host or presenter.
In an excerpt of the clip shared, Chude shared why he gave up on God and religion and decided to fully embrace atheism.
Hitting rock bottom and battling depression
The PR specialist revealed during his interview with Omoni Oboli how he battled with a mental disorder after he was diagnosed with Clinical depression in 2016.
He noted that at this point he was already CEO of YNaija but things were really bad for him. He shared a funny story of how broke he was and struggling at the lowest ebb.
Chude said the day he found out how terrible things were was the day his chef served him food (Rice and stew) with no meat. He shared how shocked he was but that was the point when reality dawned on him because it happened in front of his friend, a woman.
Read an excerpt of Chude’s quote talking about his interview with Omoni Oboli:
“For years people have been asking me, ‘What’s your own story?’ This year, I am finally saying yes and sharing a part of my story. The part I think the world needs to hear today. When my show hit its stride, I stopped saying yes to interviews because I wanted to focus on listening, hearing, and being a channel for others. I wanted to have something significant to say to the world before speaking again. I believe that time has come.”
He also expressed his gratitude for having Omoni Oboli interview him:
“I am honoured by all the people who either offered or said yes. The first special is with my sister and friend, the chart-bursting actor, producer and director — Omoni Oboli.”
Chude also spoke about his upcoming book release, ‘How Depression Saved My Life’ which will be out in April 2025, a memoir of his life from 2014-2024 and a journey that led him through depression, heartbreak, thoughts of suicide, quitting his job as CEO and becoming the host and creator of #WithChude.
Watch excerpts from the interview below:
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