Veteran Nollywood actress Omotunde Ogundimu has appealed to Nigerians and well-meaning individuals for financial assistance as she continues treatment for cervical cancer.
Ogundimu disclosed that she was diagnosed with the disease in 2024 after undergoing a series of medical tests. She made the disclosure during an interview with fellow actress Biola Bayo, which was published online on Wednesday.
The actress said the illness has taken a heavy physical, emotional and financial toll on her, adding that the cost of continuing her treatment has become increasingly difficult to bear.
According to her, her three children have also been contributing towards her medical expenses but are struggling to sustain the financial burden.
Ogundimu said she had initially been reluctant to make a public appeal for assistance but decided to speak out after exhausting other options.
She also expressed gratitude to those who had already supported her, while appealing for further assistance to enable her to continue receiving medical care.
The actress, who has spent about 35 years in the Nigerian film industry, also spoke about the difficulties she has faced securing acting roles in recent years.
She said she sometimes receives between N20,000 and N40,000 for acting jobs despite her years of experience, making it difficult to meet her financial obligations while undergoing prolonged treatment.
Ogundimu is a widow and mother of three. She said her husband died in 2012 and that her children have played a major role in supporting her through her health challenges.
Her latest appeal has generated sympathy among fans and members of the entertainment community, with supporters urging Nigerians to assist her in whatever way they can.
In a separate social media update published on September 9, Ogundimu also acknowledged the support she had received from friends, fans and well-wishers, while expressing optimism about her recovery.
The actress’s case has once again drawn attention to the financial challenges faced by some veteran entertainers who require prolonged medical treatment.
For now, Ogundimu’s focus remains on continuing her treatment and receiving the support she needs as she battles the disease.
