Tinubu: Ogogo Preserved Our Culture Through His Talent

President Bola Tinubu has mourned veteran Nollywood actor, filmmaker and screenwriter, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing his death as a major loss to the Yoruba film industry and Nigeria’s creative community.

In a condolence message issued on Monday in Abuja by his Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Ogogo as a distinguished artiste whose decades-long career contributed significantly to the growth of Yoruba-language theatre and Nigerian cinema.

Tinubu said the late actor’s body of work would remain an important part of Nigeria’s cultural history, while his mentorship of younger artistes further strengthened his legacy in Nollywood.

The President praised Ogogo’s distinctive acting style, powerful screen presence and commitment to his craft, saying he used his talent to entertain generations while promoting Yoruba culture and Nigeria’s diverse heritage.

Tinubu said Ogogo was a gifted artiste who used his talent to tell Nigerian stories, preserve the country’s cultural heritage and entertain audiences both at home and abroad.

He described the actor’s death as a great loss to his family, the Yoruba film industry, Nollywood and the wider Nigerian creative community.

The President extended his condolences to Ogogo’s family, colleagues, friends and millions of admirers, urging members of the creative industry and Nigerians to honour his memory by preserving and building on the cultural values and artistic traditions to which he devoted his life.

Tinubu also prayed for the peaceful repose of Ogogo’s soul and strength for his family to bear the loss.

Ogogo’s journey to prominence was remarkable.

Before becoming a household name in Yoruba cinema, he worked as a mechanic with the Ogun State Water Corporation for about 13 years.

He began acting in 1981 while combining the profession with his mechanic job before eventually leaving his employment in 1994 to pursue acting as a full-time career.

Over the years, he became one of the most recognisable faces in Yoruba-language cinema, leaving behind a legacy shaped by decades of storytelling, cultural preservation and mentorship.