By Efe Onodjae

Emotions ran high on Wednesday, January 29, at the Lagos launch of How Depression Saved My Life, a new memoir by award-winning filmmaker and media entrepreneur, Chude Jideonwo, as prominent Nigerians openly reflected on mental health, vulnerability and healing.

The event, which attracted leading figures from the media, entertainment and intellectual circles, took a deeply personal turn when former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Olumide Akpata, spoke candidly about his reaction to the book.

Akpata, who disclosed that he had read the memoir ahead of the launch, described it as timely and profoundly important. “I have read the book, and I genuinely believe people need this book,” he said.

“What Chude has done is remarkable. He has distilled insight and knowledge that are deeply necessary, and I cannot begin to describe how important this work is.”

How Depression Saved My Life, currently listed among Amazon’s Top 100 bestsellers, chronicles Jideonwo’s personal battle with clinical depression and how the experience reshaped his views on faith, purpose, success and emotional well-being.

As the author read excerpts from the memoir, the atmosphere in the room became visibly charged. Publisher and media icon, Betty Irabor, broke down in tears, overwhelmed by the honesty and depth of the narrative, while actress Shaffy Bello was seen consoling her. Other guests, including Funke Akindele, MI Abaga and Prof. Pat Utomi, listened in rapt attention, many visibly moved by the rawness of the moment.

Observers noted that the event went beyond a routine book launch, evolving into a rare public conversation on mental health and emotional truth. Several attendees lingered long after the formal programme, sharing personal experiences and engaging the author in heartfelt discussions.

The launch underscored the growing relevance of Jideonwo’s memoir as both a personal testimony and a broader social intervention, particularly in a society where conversations around mental health are still gaining ground.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the stigma surrounding emotional vulnerability, How Depression Saved My Life is emerging as a powerful catalyst for dialogue, reminding readers that healing often begins with honesty and that no one has to walk the journey alone.