Nigerian actress Atinuke Kareem has died after a reported battle with breast cancer, four months after seeking public support for her treatment

Nigerian actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, popularly known as Atinuke Kareem, has died after a reported battle with breast cancer, with Owolabi Ajasa, the Ogun State Governor of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, announcing her death on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

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Ajasa announced the actress’s death in a statement shared on his Instagram page, while acknowledging the support offered by colleagues and members of the public during her illness.

The announcement brought an end to a difficult period for Kareem, who had sought financial assistance for her medical treatment four months before her death.

Ajasa thanked those who contributed financially, prayed for Kareem and offered encouragement and other forms of support during her treatment.

“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” Ajasa said.

He added that the association could only accept the loss and pray for strength for Kareem’s family, colleagues and loved ones.

Kareem’s illness had previously drawn attention within the Nigerian entertainment community after appeals were made for financial assistance to support her treatment.

The appeal reflected the difficulties faced by entertainers dealing with prolonged medical care, particularly when treatment requires sustained financial resources.

Her death has now prompted an outpouring of grief among colleagues and supporters who followed her health journey.

Ajasa’s statement also recognised the collective efforts made to support the actress during her illness, highlighting the role played by colleagues and members of the public.

Kareem’s death adds to a series of losses that have affected Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where fellow performers and industry organisations have frequently rallied around colleagues facing serious illnesses.

For those who knew Kareem, the circumstances surrounding her final months have made her passing particularly painful.

The actress had received financial and emotional support during her treatment, but the efforts ultimately could not prevent her death.

Details about her funeral arrangements were not included in the announcement.

Kareem is survived by family members, friends, colleagues and other loved ones who are now mourning her passing.

Her death has also renewed attention on the challenges faced by entertainers who require long-term medical treatment and rely on support networks to meet the associated costs.

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As tributes continue to emerge, colleagues are expected to remember Kareem not only for her work as an actress but also for the difficult health journey that preceded her death.