The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, popularly known as Atinuke Kareem, after a battle with breast cancer.
Kareem’s death was announced on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, by the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) through its Executive Governor, Owolabi Ajasa.
Her passing comes at a particularly difficult time for the Yoruba film community, which is still mourning the death of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on August 23 after battling cancer.
TAMPAN confirms actress Atinuke Kareem’s death
The announcement of Kareem’s death was made through a statement signed by TAMPAN Ogun State Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Owolabi Ajasa.
The association expressed appreciation to colleagues, fans and well-wishers who supported Atinuke Kareem during her illness, including those who contributed financially and offered prayers and encouragement.
Despite the collective efforts to support her treatment, the actress eventually lost her battle with the disease.
TAMPAN described her death as a painful loss to her family, colleagues and loved ones, while calling for strength for those she left behind.
Atinuke Kareem had publicly sought financial assistance
Before her death, Atinuke Kareem had publicly appealed for financial assistance to help her continue treatment for breast cancer.
In a video shared alongside reports of her death, the actress spoke openly about the financial burden her illness had placed on her family.
She revealed that her family had already spent a significant amount of money on her treatment and that TAMPAN members had also made efforts to assist her.
Atinuke Kareem appealed to Nigerians to support her, revealing that she was a mother of two young children.
Her emotional plea drew attention from members of the public, colleagues and fans, with many offering financial assistance, prayers and encouragement during her illness.
A difficult period for Nollywood
Kareem’s death adds to a series of losses that have recently affected the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Her passing occurred only days after the death of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, whose death on August 23 also followed a battle with cancer.
The close timing of the two deaths has deepened the sense of grief within the Yoruba movie community, with fans and colleagues once again having to mourn a familiar face from the industry.
For many followers of Yoruba-language cinema, Atinuke Kareem was recognised through her appearances in Yoruba productions.
She was also part of the cast of Ronke Odusanya’s comedy series Sàlàyé È, which featured other known actors including Mercy Aigbe, Babatunde Hamzat, Esther Kalajaiye and Soliu Gbolagade.
Her final appeal remains a painful reminder
Kareem’s public appeal for assistance has added an emotional dimension to the reaction following her death.
At the time, the actress was seeking help to continue her medical treatment and had spoken about the financial difficulties created by her prolonged illness.
Her death has renewed conversations about the challenges faced by individuals and families dealing with serious illnesses.
It has also highlighted the financial pressure that can accompany prolonged medical treatment.
While colleagues and supporters rallied around her, those efforts ultimately could not prevent her death.
Fans and colleagues mourn Atinuke Kareem
News of Kareem’s death has generated mourning among fans and members of the entertainment community.
Her death is another reminder of the personal stories behind the actors who entertain millions of Nigerians through film and television.
As tributes continue to emerge, attention is now turning to her family, friends, colleagues and the two young children she mentioned during her appeal for help.
The Yoruba film industry is once again left to grieve the loss of one of its members, barely days after saying goodbye to another veteran.
Atinuke Remilekun Kareem’s death marks another sad chapter for Nollywood.
Her struggle with breast cancer and her public appeal for assistance have left a lasting impression on those who followed her journey.
Her colleagues, fans and loved ones now mourn her passing and remember her contribution to Yoruba-language entertainment.
May her soul rest in peace.
