Nigerian producer and director Shina Sanyaolu, a prominent figure in the Yoruba film industry, has passed away.
News About Nigeria reports that his death was confirmed by Bolaji Amusan, the president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), through an Instagram post on Wednesday.
“Sleep well uncle Shina Sanyaolu,” Amusan wrote, although details about the cause and date of his death remain undisclosed.
Tributes have since poured in from colleagues in the film industry, who took to social media to express their grief and honour Sanyaolu’s memory.
Veteran actor Jide Kosoko described him as a “beacon of kindness and warmth” in a heartfelt Instagram post.
“Shina Sanyaolu was not just a remarkable man, he was a beacon of kindness and warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His love for the arts and unwavering support for our industry were unmatched,” Kosoko wrote.
He also recalled Sanyaolu’s generosity in the 1980s, particularly toward Nigerian artists traveling to the UK.
Doyin Amodu, president of TAMPAN UK, also paid her respects, describing Sanyaolu’s dedication to the arts as unparalleled. “Your love for arts and unwavering support for the industry were unmatched. Good night my brother and director. You will deeply be missed,” she shared on Instagram.
Sanyaolu was celebrated for his exceptional directing skills, contributing to popular films such as ‘The Honourable’, ‘Two Wives’, and ‘Omo Olosan’.
