The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has described the late veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as ‘Ogogo’, as more than a movie star, calling him a custodian of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

In a statement issued by her media aide, Dr Nneka Ikem Anibeze, Musawa said the actor was a towering figure whose discipline and dedication helped shape Nollywood.

Musawa praised Ogogo for his contributions to Yoruba storytelling and the Nigerian creative industry, noting that he made Nigerians laugh, think, and feel proud of their identity.

She further stated that the industry has lost a giant, but his legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the films he left behind.

On behalf of the ministry and the creative community, the minister extended condolences to Ogogo’s family, colleagues, fans, and the people of Ogun State. She prayed for strength for the family and the Nigerian film industry to bear the loss and for the actor’s eternal rest.

She wrote:
“Ogogo was not just a star on our screens. He was a custodian of our culture, a proud voice of Yoruba storytelling, and a man who dedicated his life to building the Nigerian creative industry.”

“For many years, he made us laugh, made us think, and made us proud of who we are as Nigerians.”

“His works celebrated our heritage and projected the richness of our traditions to the world. The industry has lost a giant, but his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the films he left behind.”