The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has expressed grief over the death of veteran Nigerian actor, Chief Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.

The Minister described the late actor as a towering figure in Nollywood and a custodian of Yoruba culture whose decades of work helped promote Nigerian storytelling and the creative economy.

In a statement, the Minister said Taiwo Hassan’s talent, discipline and dedication helped shape Nigeria’s film industry and inspired generations of actors, directors and producers.

She described Ogogo as a proud voice of Yoruba storytelling, noting that his works projected Nigeria’s cultural heritage and traditions to audiences within the country and beyond.

The Minister said the industry has lost a giant, but his legacy would continue through the films he left behind and the lives he touched.

She extended condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues in Nollywood, his fans and the people of Ogun State.

Musawa also prayed for the strength to bear the loss and for the repose of the late actor’s soul.