The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has reacted to the passage of Taiwo Hassan, a veteran Nigerian actor, screenwriter, director and producer, which occurred recently, describing it as a colossal loss not only to his family, but also to Nigeria’s film industry.
NFC, in a statement signed by Brian Etuk, its Director of Public Affairs and released in Jos, Plateau State; described Taiwo Hassan as one of the pillars of Nigeria’s cinema, and a frontline advocate and promoter of indigenous culture. The statement quotes Dr. Ali Nuhu, NFC’s Managing Director/Chief Executive as saying that Taiwo Hassan’s passage “is indeed painful, saddening, given among others, his decades of professional and impactful practice as a filmmaker who gave voices to creative ideas; and platforms for talent development”.
Nigeria’s film industry owes him a place in history; as one among the major catalysts for its growth and development, Dr. Nuhu averred; maintaining that, even in death, Taiwo, also kwon as Ogogo, lives tall, having left behind great and memorable achievements that will be ingrained in the hearts of those who knew him directly or through the scripts he wrote or the movies he acted in, directed or produced.
As a veteran filmmaker; and from his stable as a storyteller, mentor and culture advocate, as well as a Nigerian cinematic voice, he utilized the power of film to transform lives, families, and communities by not just creating entertaining contents, but moral messages that became life compasses for lovers of his creative ingenuity and film content.
On behalf of Management and Staff of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), I extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, associates, and the countless audiences he impacted. He made an indelible industry impact and Nigeria will not forget him, Dr. Nuhu further said; just as he prayed that God grants him a peaceful rest.
