The Nigerian film industry is in mourning today as popular Yoruba-language actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, widely known simply as Atinuke Kareem, has died following a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
Her passing was confirmed this afternoon in an official statement by Owolabi Ajasa, Governor of the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), shared via his Instagram page.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,”
Ajasa wrote.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards her treatment. Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call. We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss.”
The actress’s death comes approximately four months after she made an emotional public appeal for financial assistance to continue her cancer treatment.
In a widely circulated video, Kareem tearfully shared her struggle: “I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough. Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help.”
Her appeal drew an outpouring of support from colleagues, fans, and well-wishers across Nigeria. Yet despite the generosity and prayers, the disease progressed, and the actress succumbed earlier today.
Kareem’s passing carries added poignancy: she is the second prominent Yoruba film star lost to cancer within nine days. Veteran actor Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, died on August 23, also following a battle with cancer.
The two losses have sent shockwaves through the close-knit Yoruba-language film community, sparking renewed conversations about healthcare access and cancer awareness among Nigerian entertainers.
Kareem built a solid career in the Yoruba Nollywood scene, appearing in numerous productions over the years. She was notably part of the cast of Ronke Odusanya’s comedy series Sàlàyé È, alongside other industry names including Mercy Aigbe.
Those who knew her remember her as a dedicated performer and a warm presence on set. Her colleagues describe her death as an irrecoverable loss to the industry.
She leaves behind two young children-the same children she spoke of so tenderly in her appeal for life. Tributes have been flooding social media since the news broke, with fans and fellow actors sharing condolences and praying for her family.
