The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has officially reinstated Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar, ending a suspension that kept her out of the industry for more than a year.
Abubakar was placed on indefinite suspension in October 2024 following allegations of defamation involving fellow actors and other prominent Nigerians. After a prolonged investigation that spanned nearly two years, an AGN disciplinary committee found her culpable, resulting in her exclusion from film productions and all guild-related activities.
However, that decision has now been reversed.
The announcement was made on Thursday by the outgoing National President of AGN, Emeka Rollas, during the inauguration of the guild’s new National Executive Council (NEC) at the AGN national secretariat in Abuja.
Explaining the decision, Rollas disclosed that Abubakar had previously taken the guild to court, demanding what he described as an excessive financial claim. Despite this, he said the leadership ultimately reconsidered the long-term impact of the suspension on her livelihood.
“Acting is her primary means of survival,” Rollas said. “Keeping her suspended indefinitely would amount to cruelty. Therefore, with the authority vested in me by the Board of Trustees and the Actors Guild of Nigeria, I hereby announce the lifting of Halima Abubakar’s suspension.”
Rollas, whose second and final term concluded in December 2025, formally handed over leadership to Abubakar Yakubu, the newly elected national president of the guild.
In the same gesture, Rollas also lifted the suspensions of four members of the AGN Enugu State chapter—Christopher Igboji, Chidi Concord, Dan Ewerem, and Jeff Okwute. He noted that, as his tenure came to an end, he preferred not to leave unresolved disciplinary matters behind.
“There were individuals suspended in line with AGN regulations, but as I exit office, I do not wish to leave anyone behind in that condition,” he said.
Earlier at the event, Chuks Chyke, Chairman of the Inauguration Organising Committee, praised Rollas for what he described as bold and inclusive leadership, crediting him with steering the guild through challenging periods.
“Your contributions have become part of the legacy on which we will continue to build,” Chyke said, as he congratulated the incoming president and his executive team.
He charged the new NEC to prioritize transparency, unity, and professionalism, describing the inauguration as a milestone in the history of the guild.
“Today signifies a peaceful transfer of leadership and demonstrates the strength, maturity, and unity of our creative community,” he stated.
Chyke further called on AGN members nationwide to rally behind the new leadership to ensure the guild remains cohesive, credible, and respected globally.
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He concluded by commending the outgoing executives for their commitment and sacrifice, noting that their tenure reinforced the guild’s foundation, elevated its professional standing, and preserved the dignity of Nigerian actors.
