By Rita Okoye
With a passion for storytelling ignited on the small screen, Enoobong Odiase has carved a dynamic career as a TV producer. Over the past 13 years, she has navigated the exciting yet challenging world of television, amassing a wealth of experiences that have shaped her into the accomplished producer she is today.
In this exclusive interview with Allure, Enoobong Odiase candidly discusses the hurdles she’s overcome, the inspirations that fuel her creativity, and the ambitious projects that lie ahead.
How did your journey TV producer start?
My interest in television and storytelling started at a young age. I was always fascinated by cartoons and video games, how the stories and the magic of bringing characters came to life and the CGI. Growing up, I wanted to study animation in Japan but then deviated to studying Graphic design at the university, where I majored in Graphics and minored in ceramics.
After graduating, I began my career at a company, where I was taught how to use premiere pro. This role was my introduction to the fast-paced world of television.
Aside from that, I learnt how to work on various tasks, from setting up equipment to coordinating schedules and supporting the production team. These early experiences taught me the importance of teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability.
I edited my first short film promo, which I used in securing my first proper job at a television house. I then went further to volunteer for the role of head of production when the opportunity came up. In this role, I gained more responsibilities, such as script supervision, segment production, producing and coordinating the producers, cameramen and editors. This position allowed me to develop my skills in managing the creative and logistical aspects of production.
Every milestone is significant in my career, from directing and producing reality shows, award shows, and Live events to producing shows for television, producing musical events and celebrity weddings and co-directing a short movie. As a producer, I was responsible for overseeing the entire production process, from concept development to final broadcast. This role involved:
* Story Development: Working with writers to develop compelling stories and scripts.
* Budget Management: Ensuring that the production stayed within budget while maintaining high-quality standards.
* Scheduling: Coordinating with various departments to create a realistic and efficient production schedule.
* Team Leadership: Leading a team of talented professionals, including directors, editors, camera operators, and more.
* Problem-solving: Addressing any issues that arose during production to keep everything on track.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of projects, including [The Heads, Soundcity Awards, Ariya Repete, Queen Moremi reality show and many more]. Each project brought its own set of challenges and rewards, and I learned something new from every experience.
Currently, I am getting ready to work on my TV show and movie, hopefully, sometime next year, where I will continue to explore innovative ways to tell stories and engage audiences. My goal is to keep evolving as a storyteller and to contribute to meaningful and entertaining television content.
The television industry is constantly changing, and I am excited to see where it will take me next.
Working in TV production has taught me the value of creativity, resilience, and collaboration. It’s a field where every day is different, and you get to bring ideas to life in ways that can touch and inspire people. It’s a demanding yet incredibly fulfilling career, and I am grateful for every moment of it.
What inspired you to pursue a career in TV Production?
I was inspired by my love for cartoons and video games. I initially wanted to study animation in Japan, but at some point, I deviated and went to school to study Graphic design. After school, I did a little bit of theatre and modelling t, then went back to my first love for cartoons. I also knew how to draw, so I used to make little comic books back then.
After school, a friend introduced me to her boss, who wanted to create a cartoon series. We had our first meeting where he pitched his idea, and I started fleshing it out; I went from episode 1 to 2, then 3, then 4, to his amazement. He just told me the creative industry is where I belong; he gave me some YouTube videos to learn how to edit, and while learning, I started editing his short film teaser, and as they say, the rest is HISTORY.
Ultimately, what inspires me most is the potential to make an impact through my work. I am driven by the desire to create content that not only captivates audiences but also sparks conversations, challenges perspectives, and inspires positive change.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced at the early stage of your career, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenges I faced were establishing credibility and gaining the trust of colleagues and superiors as a newcomer.
I started as a TV video editor and had to constantly prove to myself that I could be way more than just an editor. When the window of opportunity came, I volunteered to become the production head on the same salary but to change the narrative. I focused on producing high-quality work, made sure deadlines were met, encouraged collaboration, hired team members who complemented each other’s skills and worked well together and developed strong leadership and team management skills. I also constantly improved my skills, learning more camera angles, editing, sound production and lighting.
You are now pursuing your personal goals, how has the journey been so far?
It’s been great; it has its challenges. Trust me, it isn’t rosy at all, but we are still thriving.
How do you stay inspired and continue to innovate in your work?
By continuously learning, attend conferences to network and meet professionals. I am currently trying to enrol on a six-month course in post-production supervision at NTFS London. I am also looking to enrol on an event production and management course and am currently taking a project management course.
I have friends who we collaborate and come up with new ideas.
I also watch a wide range of TV shows and films and draw inspiration from different genres and formats. Finally, I take breaks, rest, and play video games so that I don’t burn out.
How do you see the role of women evolving in the TV production industry?
The role of women in the TV production industry is evolving significantly, women are increasingly taking on a variety of roles in TV production, from directors and producers to writers and editors. This diversity is helping to bring a wider range of perspectives and stories to the screen. More women are not only in front of the camera but also behind it, contributing to creative and technical decisions that shape content. Here in Nigeria, it is super amazing to see box office movies that are directed, written and produced by women, not excluding music videos.
What has been your most memorable project to date, and why?
Every project I have worked on has been memorable; they have tested my creativity, especially the reality shows, which is what I love because I am spontaneous.
Who are some of your biggest influences or mentors in the industry?
Kunle Afolayan ‘s storytelling is top-notch.
How does your partner support your career, and how do you support each other’s ambitions?
He is very supportive; he understands my goals and that I am very driven and focused. He respects that and generally encourages me to be the best and vice versa.
What are your goals for the future, both professionally and personally?
My goal for the future is to produce my movies. I have a couple of stories yet to be scripted and also some TV shows, so I am looking forward to that and personally just touring the world, producing content, starting my clothing line and making money.
Are there any upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about?
Not at the moment, but we are planning towards the coming year.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to become TV producers?
For young women aspiring to become TV producers, the journey can be both exciting and challenging. So I would say make sure this is something you want to do, something you are interested in because being a TV producer requires a blend of technical skills, creativity, leadership, and resilience. You would need to gain experience by interning or getting an entry-level position in a production house, developing key skills, being ambitious, networking actively and developing a portfolio; by doing this, you can easily navigate the challenges of the industry and achieve your career aspirations.
What qualities do you think are essential for success in this industry?
I am going to break this down into bits. The qualities essential for success in this industry are:
– First off, you have to be creative, the ability to create compelling and engaging stories that capture the audience’s attention. Always be ready to be innovative by bringing fresh and original ideas to the table.
– Have some knowledge of the technical aspects of TV production, which includes camera work, lighting, sound, and editing, I made sure I learnt everything so that I can be flexible when it comes to getting a job.
– Understanding the latest technologies and trends in digital media and social media integration.
– Communication is a deal breaker; make sure your communication skills are top-notch and convey ideas and visions to your team.
– You have to be a problem solver, take initiative and find solutions to unexpected challenges while on set.
– Be flexible and network because this can open doors to new opportunities.
– Attention to detail is very important, be resilient, and Understand the market and what appeals to a global audience.
– And finally, Teamwork makes the dream work.
Any Regrets?
I have no regrets about going into Television production; it has been a wonderful journey; my only regret would be not accomplishing everything I set out for myself in the next 10 years. I always tell my friends that my brain hasn’t been put to work yet, so hopefully, I find someone who wants a piece of my ideas or I use them myself. (Laughs)