Sam Dede, is a Nigerian veteran actor, director, politician and lecturer. Sam Dede as he is widely known in movies studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt. He entered the Nollywood industry in 1995 and rose to prominence for his role in the film Ijele. In 2005, Dede won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his performance in the 2004 film The Mayors. He was honoured with SVAFF 2014 Special Recognition Award for his lifetime achievement and contributions to Nigerian cinema. He was nominated for the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2018 for his performance in the 2017 film In My Country.