Nollywood is grieving the loss of veteran director Dimeji Ajibola, who passed away on November 5, 2024, after a brief illness.
Renowned for his work on projects such as Shanty Town, Slum King, Hoodrush, Ovy’s Voice, and Wura, Ajibola was a respected figure in the Nigerian film industry. His accolades included Best Actor and Soundtrack at the Nollywood Movies Awards, Best Supporting Actor at the AMAA Awards, and Best Movie at the 2012 Green Me Film Festival in Germany.
Ajibola’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans across social media and public forums.
Fellow filmmakers and industry professionals, including Shanty Town producer Chinenye Nworah, who had worked closely with Ajibola, shared emotional tributes, reflecting on his final days.
Nworah wrote, “DIMEJI. I thank God I was by your side all through your last days… You fought hard to live. God knows the best. Good night my brother.”
Xavier Ighoredje, writer and producer of Shanty Town, also expressed his sorrow, describing Ajibola as “phenomenal” and sending his condolences to his family.
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also shared his grief, saying, “I love you brother and I will miss you… Rest on CHAMP.”
The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Oscars paid tribute to Ajibola, acknowledging his significant contributions to Nigerian cinema and the global film community. “His immense talent, dedication, and passion for Nigerian storytelling left an indelible mark… We will profoundly miss his contributions,” they wrote.
Ajibola’s legacy in Nollywood, through his extensive body of work and the relationships he nurtured, will remain a lasting testament to his vision, talent, and enduring impact on the industry.
