Nollywood filmmaker Dimbo Atiya dies

The Nigerian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of filmmaker Dimbo Atiya, a respected producer and director whose death was announced by actor Mofe Duncan and film producer Uzee Usman.

Duncan expressed profound grief, calling Atiya "one of the greatest minds in the entertainment industry." Usman shared his personal pain, recounting a recent conversation with Atiya and highlighting the significant impact the producer had, particularly in Abuja, where many relied on him. "Oga Dims, you sent me a message yesterday about my eyes, and you told me how you’re managing yours as well. You called to joke about my Apollo and how I should find my way back to Abuja. Please don’t do this; lots of people depend on you, especially in Abuja. This one pains me," Usman wrote.

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God, no. Not Dimbo. No, no. I’m devastated. One of the greatest minds in the entertainment industry.

Atiya, originally from Nasarawa State, gained prominence with the production of "Halita," which earned him the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Africa Magic Original Drama Series. His professional training at the New York Film Academy equipped him for a prolific career. Throughout his work, Atiya produced more than 500 television episodes and five feature films, providing employment for over 100 actors and nearly 400 crew members. He also had a background in photography, working for the London Theatre and later as Head of Photography at Konga.com.

Before his passing, Atiya was involved in the drama series "The Rishantes" as co-creator, executive producer, producer, co-writer, and director. This series, aired on Africa Magic and Showmax, also received an award nomination. His filmography includes "Drawing Strength," "Still Falling: Season 2," and the TV miniseries "The Plan." He rose to national attention with "Sons of the Caliphate," a political drama exploring themes of power, ambition, and loyalty. Atiya's death follows closely on the heels of the industry's loss of actress Temitope Osoba, who died at 40 after a battle with breast cancer.

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Honestly, I can’t relate, my God. Oga Dims, you sent me a message yesterday about my eyes, and you told me how you’re managing yours as well. You called to joke about my Apollo and how I should find my way back to Abuja. Please don’t do this; lots of people depend on you, especially in Abuja. This one pains me.