The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of acclaimed filmmaker and director Dimbo Atiya, whose passing was announced on Thursday by actor Mofe Duncan.
Duncan broke the news in an emotional tribute shared on his social media pages, expressing shock over Atiya’s death and describing him as “one of the greatest minds of the entertainment industry.” The cause of death was not disclosed, and the filmmaker’s family had yet to issue an official statement at the time of filing this report.
Dimbo Atiya was widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most accomplished television producers and directors. He earned widespread recognition for his work on acclaimed television series such as Sons of the Caliphate, Halita, The Rishantes and Dala Dala, productions that helped elevate Northern Nigerian storytelling and broaden the diversity of narratives in the country’s film industry.
Throughout his career, Atiya was celebrated for his creative vision, storytelling ability and commitment to mentoring emerging talents in the industry. His productions received critical acclaim, with The Rishantes winning the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Africa Magic Original Drama Series, further cementing his reputation as one of Nollywood’s leading filmmakers.
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from colleagues, actors and fans across social media, many remembering Atiya as a humble professional whose contributions significantly shaped Nigeria’s television and film landscape.
Actor Mofe Duncan’s tribute was echoed by other industry figures, who described the late director as an exceptional creative whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers.
As of the time of this report, funeral arrangements had not been announced, while the circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed.
Atiya’s passing marks another significant loss for Nollywood, with many in the entertainment industry paying tribute to his enduring impact on Nigerian filmmaking and television production.
