Nigerian actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, popularly known as Atinuke Kareem, has d!ed after a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
The d3ath was confirmed on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, by Owolabi Ajasa, the governor (also referred to as president in some reports) of the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN). Ajasa announced the news in a statement shared on his Instagram page.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, ATINUKE REMILEKUN KAREEM,” Ajasa wrote. “Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call. We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful lost.
“Thank you all for standing with her. May God bless you abundantly. REST IN PEACE, ATINUKE REMILEKUN KAREEM.”
Kareem, a Yoruba Nollywood actress, had publicly appealed for financial assistance for her treatment roughly four months earlier. The appeal drew support from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers.
Her passing comes just eight days after the d3ath of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66 after his own battle with cancer. The successive losses have left the Nigerian film industry in mourning.
Tributes began pouring in on social media shortly after the announcement, with colleagues and fans expressing shock and grief over the latest blow to Nollywood. Some recalled personal interactions with Kareem during her treatment, including her final chemotherapy sessions.
Details of funeral arrangements have not yet been released. The industry and her loved ones continue to process the loss of another talented performer to cancer.
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