The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of acclaimed filmmaker, producer and director Dimbo Atiya.
News of his passing broke when Nollywood actor Mofe Duncan shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. Duncan’s raw post quickly spread across social media and confirmed the industry’s latest loss.
“GOD NO!! NOT DIMBO!! NO! NO!! NO!!! I AM DEVASTATED!!! ONE OF THE GREATEST MNDS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY,” Duncan wrote.
Atiya, who hailed from Nasarawa State, was widely respected for his work in television and film. He was best known for producing and directing the popular series Halita and Sons of the Caliphate. Halita won the Best Africa Magic Original Drama Series award at the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, beating six other contenders.
Over the course of his career, Atiya produced more than 500 episodes of television content and several feature films. He studied filmmaking at the New York Film Academy and became known for telling compelling stories often rooted in Northern Nigerian culture. Colleagues remembered him as a quiet mentor who shaped the careers of many actors and crew members while elevating the quality of Nollywood productions.
The cause of death has not been made public, and his family is yet to release details of funeral arrangements. His passing comes just hours after the industry lost actress Tope Osoba, deepening the sense of loss within Nollywood.
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Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues and fans who described Atiya as a creative force whose impact will be felt for years. The entertainment community is left reflecting on the contributions of a filmmaker who consistently pushed for excellence and authentic storytelling.