Abubakar Yakubu has been elected the new president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), narrowly defeating Rita Daniels in a tightly contested race.
The election took place on Saturday during the guild’s annual general meeting in Benin City, Edo State, where Yakubu garnered 116 votes against Daniels’ 113, while three ballots were voided.
The veteran actor and accomplished administrator will take over from Emeka Rollas as AGN president.
His victory is historic, making him the first person from northern Nigeria to lead the guild since it was formally registered in 1998.
Yakubu’s win culminates a long and extensive career within the guild’s leadership. His most recent role was national secretary from 2019 to 2025, capping decades of service that included stints as national vice president, national treasurer, and public relations officer.
A graduate of Dramatic Arts from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, the Kaduna-born administrator brings over 25 years of experience in television, film, and stage productions to the role.
His opponent Rita, who is the mother of popular actress Regina Daniels, had campaigned on a platform of member protection and empowerment.
Her candidacy, however, was not without controversy. It drew a public rebuke from outgoing president Rollas, who suggested she should prioritise family matters.
In other elected positions, Ifeoma Okeke was voted in as the new national secretary.
The previous presidents include Larry Williams, Emma Ogugua, Zack Orji, Ejike Asiegbu, Segun Arinze, and Ibinabo Fiberesima.
