CHRIS ODEH

Transitioning from an academic foundation in mechanical engineering to an award-winning career in filmmaking, Chris Odeh has established himself as a leading force in African cinema. With nearly two decades of experience across documentary, film and television, he has played a key role in critically acclaimed productions such as Netflix’s Tokunbo, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, Nneka the Pretty Serpent, Aki and Pawpaw, and Choke, among others.

His work has earned recognition from prestigious award bodies including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, Africa Movie Academy Awards, Africa International Film Festival, the Septimius Awards, and Best of Nollywood Awards. He recently produced the remake of the acclaimed gospel movie Agbara Nla: The Return with Mount Zion Film Productions.

Beyond filmmaking, Chris is a strategic creative entrepreneur, innovator and ecosystem builder. As the founder and Senior Producer of Sozo Films, he has built a full-service production company delivering high-quality film, documentary and television content.

He is also the founder and team lead of COAL360 Global, a not-for-profit organization committed to raising the next generation of African filmmakers through training, mentorship, and community building. Through initiatives such as the Masterclass with Chris Odeh, he has trained and equipped over 200 emerging creatives, many of whom are now actively working within the industry. He also convenes the African Film Forum, fostering cross-continental conversations and collaborations between Africa and Europe.

In 2024, Chris released his first book, Before You Say Action, a practical and widely praised guide for African independent filmmakers to rave reviews. He is currently expanding his work as an author, with two forthcoming books: a fiction novel and a
nonfiction title, Dear Creatives, which further explores the intersections of purpose, creativity, and industry realities. His work is driven by a deep commitment to storytelling, leadership, and the belief that African creatives must be equipped, supported, and trusted to tell their own stories at scale.

He was also selected from a pool of 4,000 applicants as an Elevate Africa Fellow, an initiative founded by His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, the 21st Olu of Warri, and Her Royal Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom.

Above all, Chris treasures his role as a husband to his wife, Joy, and a proud father to their three sons.