The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has officially lifted the suspension of Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar.
The actress had been placed under indefinite suspension since October 2024 following allegations of defamation against colleagues and prominent Nigerians. A two-year investigation by a special AGN panel found her culpable, leading to a ban from all guild activities and film projects during that period.
The announcement was made by outgoing AGN National President, Emeka Rollas, during the inauguration of the guild’s new National Executive Council (NEC) at the AGN national secretariat in Abuja on Thursday. The event drew actors, filmmakers, and entertainment stakeholders from across Nigeria.
Rollas, who concluded his second and final term in December 2025, handed over leadership to Abubakar Yakubu. On the occasion, he declared that Halima Abubakar’s suspension, along with those of other erring members, would be lifted to allow their reintegration into the guild.
“There were members we suspended in accordance with AGN law, and because I am leaving office, I do not want to leave them suspended. Halima Abubakar took AGN to court claiming a frivolous amount, but after our investigations, we suspended her from all acting and AGN activities,” Rollas said.
“However, since acting remains her main source of livelihood, it would be unjust to leave her barred. Therefore, by the powers vested in me by the Board of Trustees and the entire Actors Guild of Nigeria, I hereby lift Halima Abubakar’s suspension.”
Rollas also announced the lifting of suspensions for Christopher Igboji, Chidi Concord, Dan Ewerem, and Jeff Okwute, members of the Enugu State chapter.
Earlier, Chuks Chyke, Chairman of the Organising Committee for the inauguration, praised Rollas for his inclusive leadership and stabilising influence on the guild. “Your achievements will remain part of the legacy upon which we continue to build,” he said.
Chyke urged the new president and NEC members to view their mandate as a sacred trust, calling for visionary and inclusive leadership.
“Today marks a historic moment in the life of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, as we witness a peaceful transition of leadership and the inauguration of a new National Executive Council. This occasion reflects the strength of our institution, the maturity of our processes, and the unity of our creative family. I sincerely commend the immediate past president and executives for their service, sacrifice, and dedication,” he said.
He encouraged all guild members nationwide to support the new leadership team to build a stronger, united, and globally respected Actors Guild of Nigeria.
