A Close-up on Film-TV producer, Preye Odibo

Yinka Olatunbosun

In the ever-evolving world of film and television productions, few figures stand out as boldly as Preye Odibo, a trailblazer whose unique vision and relentless creativity, especially as series producer, have not only reshaped the industry but also captured the hearts of audiences both at national and international levels. From humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse content developer, she has mastered the art of storytelling in ways that resonate like few others.

Born Odibo Blessing Preye, she chose to use her native name, Preye, when she entered the industry in 2012 while her friends from university and high school still called her ‘Blessing.’ She hails from the Ese Odo local government area of Ondo state. Although the name Preye is typically associated with persons with roots in Bayelsa, Delta, or River’s regions, rather than Ondo, it is a fact that a few people are aware that there is an Ijaw community in Ondo State, particularly in Arogbo, along with other groups like the Apoi and Ilaje.

Born in FESTAC town, Lagos, Preye completed her education in Lagos at The Apostolic Church Grammar School in Kosofe-Ketu, followed by a BA in Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan.

“I served in Abeokuta, Ogun state cultural center Kuto,” she revealed in a brief encounter recently.

Whether performing as a dancer or an actor, she consistently demonstrated her talent in these fields from an early age, earning the title of best dancer in every dance competition she participated in at various birthday celebrations. Consequently, when she was accepted to study theatre arts at the University of Ibadan, the choice was clear for her. “Particularly as I had also contemplated pursuing a degree in law. My interest in the filmmaking process has been evident since my youth. Although I cannot identify a specific person or event that sparked this interest, I believe my enthusiasm for entertainment spanning television, film, and stage is deeply rooted within me. This natural ability was further recognised during my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, where I served as the dance director for my group from 2011 to 2012.”

Upon entering Nollywood, she began her career as an actor. And her significant breakthrough came when she portrayed the character Iniobong in Wale Adenuga’s ‘Super Story’ titled ‘Itohan’.

“Children in the streets could recognise me without any introduction, and I later appeared in another popular television series called Civilian Barracks, which aired on MITV and LTV,” she recounted.

With a knack for managing and coordinating tasks, ensuring they reach completion. At the time, she was unaware that this inclination aligned with the roles of a producer or manager until she chose to major in Theatre Management instead of pursuing a Dance Major, despite having won the Best Choreographer award in her department in 2009. Upon entering the industry, like many aspiring actors, she was eager to perform on screen, on the heels of her success as an actor in school. However, she overlooked the vast opportunities available behind the scenes, and it is crucial for the younger generation to understand that not everyone will succeed as an actor.

For her, the challenge was not about giving up on acting due to fierce competition; rather, she recognised that the landscape has become even more competitive with the rise of Gen Z and advancements in technology. Hence, she delved into production management serving as a Production Manager for a project in which she was also an actor.

“I found immense satisfaction in coordinating and managing an entire project, experiencing a unique adrenaline rush that I do not feel as an actor. In fact, I often experience anxiety as an actor, particularly before my first scene of the day.”

The pivotal moment that prompted her transition from acting to production occurred when she was invited to coordinate and manage a television game show as the Production Manager.

“I relished the experience, and during this time, I also independently organised the premiere of the highly anticipated film ‘Oloibiri’, which was a resounding success, attended by distinguished guests such as former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon and former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, among other dignitaries.”

It was at that moment that she realised that this was her true calling, and she has not looked back since.

“Perhaps in the future, I may revisit acting and explore the dual role of producer/actor.”

Despite working in a highly extroverted industry, Preye Blessing Odibo is naturally an introvert. That’s one fact people don’t know about her. When she’s not on set or managing productions, she prefers to stay indoors, immersing herself in films, series, and reality shows on platforms like Netflix and Showmax by watching a diverse range of content to gain further insight into storytelling techniques, character development and industry trends.

“I also spend time reading books and conducting research, which helps broaden my perspective and fuels my creativity. These quiet moments of observation and learning contribute to my ability to craft engaging narratives and manage productions with depth and authenticity.

“And of course, I love to sleep, I derive pleasure in sleeping. Sleep is essential, it allows me to recharge, ensuring that I bring fresh energy and innovative ideas to every project I take on,” she added.