He paved the way for many, Actress Toyosi Adesanya honours late actor Ogogo

Nollywood actress Toyosi Adesanya has paid tribute to her late mentor, veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo. Adesanya described the late actor as an "epitome of simplicity and integrity" who significantly contributed to the Nigerian film industry by training many actors and paving the way for their careers.

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My late boss was a man of integrity. He’s an epitome of simplicity. He trained me out of chance.

Adesanya, who attended Ogogo's burial in Ilaro, Ogun State, shared her personal journey, stating she began her training under him in 1994 through the Yinka Quadri-led Odunfa Caucus. She spent a decade learning from Ogogo and other senior practitioners, recalling rigorous training sessions held multiple times a week.

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During my years of training at Odumfa Caucus, I underwent a lot of training under the tutelage of Ogogo himself.

Devastated by his death from cancer, Adesanya spoke of her conversations with Ogogo's daughters during his illness. She remembered him as a mentor who treated his trainees and colleagues like his own children, earning him the affectionate nicknames "Sir T" and "Omo Abuguloko." She also recalled his support when she produced her first film in 2002, alongside actor Yinka Quadri.

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I have been devastated since last week when I was talking to his daughter, Shakirate popularly known as Kira and Lolade Rashidats. I was not myself when I received the news of his cancer, his health problem. All I can say is that Almighty God will grant him eternal rest.

Adesanya emphasized Ogogo's profound impact, stating, "Ogogo was the one who paved the way for so many actors. Ogogo is loved. Everybody loves him." She recounted an incident during a trip to a filmmaker's burial where Ogogo was widely recognized and celebrated, underscoring his popularity and influence in the industry.

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Ogogo is one in a million. We fondly call him Sir T, Omo Abuguloko…And I will never forget all his efforts.