The Lagos State Government has expressed sadness over the death of veteran actor and cultural icon, Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, describing his passing as a significant loss to Nigeria’s creative and cultural sector.
In a condolence statement issued through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the state government said Hassan’s decades-long career played an important role in promoting Yoruba culture and contributing to the development of the entertainment industry in Lagos and across Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, described the late actor as a talented storyteller and cultural ambassador who used his profession to preserve and showcase Yoruba heritage.
She noted that Hassan’s impact extended beyond his performances on stage and screen, as he helped expose generations of audiences to the richness of Yoruba traditions, values and cultural expressions.
“Taiwo Hassan was more than an actor. He was a custodian of culture, a gifted storyteller and a proud ambassador of Yoruba heritage.
“Through his remarkable career, he entertained generations while showcasing and preserving the rich cultural values of the Yoruba people on stage and screen,” she said.
Benson-Awoyinka said Hassan’s dedication to theatre, Yoruba culture and the wider entertainment industry had left a lasting impression on the creative landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria.
She added that his extensive body of work would continue to serve as an inspiration to emerging actors, filmmakers and other professionals in the creative industry.
According to her, “He dedicated many years to the promotion of Yoruba culture, theatre and the entertainment industry. His contributions to the creative sector helped shape the cultural landscape of Lagos State and Nigeria, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
The commissioner extended the ministry’s condolences to Hassan’s family, friends, colleagues and the wider Nollywood and creative arts community.
She said his death would be deeply felt by those who experienced his talent, passion and warmth throughout his career.
“His departure is a great loss to the creative and cultural community. We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” she stated.
The ministry also encouraged members of the creative community and admirers of the late actor to draw inspiration from his dedication to his craft and his longstanding contribution to the preservation and promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.