The Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) has strongly dismissed false reports circulating on social media claiming that its Director and Chief Executive, Dr. Ali Nuhu, has passed away.
In an official statement issued on August 18, 2025, and signed by the NFC’s Director of Public Affairs, Brian Etuk, the Corporation confirmed that Ali Nuhu is alive, well, and actively carrying out his responsibilities as Chief Executive.
NFC Condemns Circulation of Fake News
The statement described the viral rumours as “malicious, injurious, and false in their entirety.”
“NFC wishes to draw the attention of perpetrators of these uncouth and dastardly acts, including their sponsors, to the dire and unmistakable consequences of their actions, no matter the innocuousness of their intent,” the release stated.
The Corporation further stressed that it has initiated measures to curb the spread of such misinformation, describing the incident as “ugly, baleful, and unsatisfactory.”
Public Reaction and Stakeholder Concerns
The NFC expressed gratitude to members of the public, as well as stakeholders in both the public and private sectors, who reached out with genuine concerns following the rumours.
The fake news began circulating on Monday evening, with videos and images of Ali Nuhu being shared widely across Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and WhatsApp groups.
Who is Ali Nuhu?
Dr. Ali Nuhu, popularly known as the “King of Kannywood”, is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actors, producers, and directors. With a career spanning over two decades, he has featured in more than 500 Nollywood and Kannywood films.
On February 12, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him as the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), a role that has positioned him at the forefront of policies driving Nigeria’s creative and film industry.
The Growing Challenge of Fake News in Nigeria
This incident highlights the increasing challenge of fake news and misinformation in Nigeria’s media space. Over the past few years, public figures, politicians, and entertainers have frequently fallen victim to death hoaxes and fabricated stories, often spread via social media platforms.
Experts have repeatedly called for digital literacy, fact-checking initiatives, and stricter regulations to tackle the spread of unverified content online, which often causes unnecessary panic and reputational damage.
NFC Reassures the Public
The Nigerian Film Corporation reiterated its commitment to transparency and urged the public to rely only on verified information from official channels.
By addressing the rumours promptly, the NFC seeks to restore calm while reaffirming that Dr. Ali Nuhu remains alive and committed to leading the Corporation in strengthening Nigeria’s film industry.
