Nollywood Set to Honor Allwell Ademola as Funeral Plans are Unveiled

The Nigerian film industry is preparing for a final farewell to one of its most versatile talents, Allwell Ademola, following the formal release of her funeral arrangements by her grieving family. Exactly one week after the news of her passing sent shockwaves through the continent, the roadmap for her transition has been mapped out, beginning with a series of commemorative events designed to celebrate her life as a director, actress, and singer. The family’s statement, which has since gone viral across social media platforms, confirms that the veteran entertainer will be laid to rest on Friday, January 9, 2026.

According to the schedule, the tributes will commence on Thursday, January 8, with a packed day of remembrance at the LTV 8 grounds in Agidingbi, Lagos. The events, slated to run from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, will include a service of songs, a candlelight procession, and a dedicated “Artiste Night.” This night is expected to be a gathering of the industry’s elite, providing a platform for colleagues to perform and share anecdotes of a woman known for her immense humor and professional mentorship.

The final journey will conclude on Friday with an interment ceremony at the Atan Cemetery in Yaba. The choice of the historic cemetery as her final resting place marks the end of a storied career that spanned decades. Ademola, who was 49 at the time of her passing, reportedly succumbed to a heart attack on December 27, 2025. Her sudden departure came as a devastating blow to the creative community, occurring during the festive season when many had expected to celebrate the new year with her.

Since the tragedy, the outpouring of grief from the Nollywood community has been unprecedented. Top-tier stars including Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, and Femi Adebayo have led the digital mourning, sharing personal memories of the late director’s impact on their careers. Lateef Adedimeji and Toyin Abraham also joined in paying homage, highlighting her unique ability to blend traditional storytelling with modern cinematic techniques. Many described her as a bridge-builder between the various generations of the Yoruba and English-speaking film sectors.

Allwell Ademola was more than just a face on the screen; she was a powerhouse behind the camera, known for her meticulous attention to detail and her support for rising actors. Her death has sparked a broader conversation within the industry regarding the health and well-being of practitioners, as she is the latest in a series of high-profile actors to die from cardiovascular-related issues. For her family, however, the priority remains ensuring that her exit is as dignified and vibrant as the life she lived.

As Lagos prepares for the funeral events next week, traffic around the Ikeja and Yaba axes is expected to be heavy with fans and well-wishers paying their last respects. The “Artiste Night” is anticipated to be one of the largest gatherings of Nollywood talent in recent years, serving as a testament to the wide-reaching influence of a woman who dedicated her life to the arts. Allwell Ademola leaves behind a vast body of work and a legacy of kindness that her colleagues vow to keep alive through their future projects.