At the heart of the showdown were two formidable contenders: Abubakar Yakubu, the steady, experienced National Secretary, and Nollywood powerhouse Rita Daniels. Their supporters surged with chants, colours, and unyielding passion, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation.
When the ballots were counted and the dust finally settled, the hall erupted.
Abubakar Yakubu emerged President with 116 votes, edging out Rita Daniels who garnered 113 in one of the closest margins in AGN electoral history.
Election observers from The Polls Watch (APW) and Blueprint Observers would later hail the process as “a reference point for the creative industry,” highlighting its transparency, orderliness, rivalry, and mutual respect.
Despite the intensity of the race, Yakubu’s victory speech was marked by humility and unity. He praised Rita Daniels for what he described as a fierce, admirable contest and extended an olive branch to all aspirants. His message was clear: the future of the Actors Guild of Nigeria must be built together.
According to him: “Our Guild shall experience greatness anchored on my campaign philosophy from Progress to Greatness which will now become our new reality. It is time to build, to unite, and to elevate the Actors Guild of Nigeria.”
The election also produced a team of dedicated national officers to steer the Guild’s next chapter. They include:
Ifeoma Okeke – National Secretary, Don Pedro Aganbi – National Director, Policy & Implementation, Dayo Amusa – Vice President, South West, Anigbo Clement Chukwudike – Vice President, South East, Bartholomew Aguugo – Vice President, South South, Micheal Yusuf Michael – Vice President, North West, Yakubu Sule – Vice President, North East, Grace Ama – National Financial Secretary, David Akumah – Director of Guild Services, Tarela Solomon Afrone – National Chief Whip, Johnson Erakpotoboh – National Assistant Secretary
Together, this newly elected leadership team represents a broad coalition of regions, professional strengths, and industry perspectives, positioning the Guild for a season of reform, stability, and renewed member confidence.
With renewed confidence from members, a mandate shaped by one of the tightest races in AGN history, and promises of structural reforms, stronger industry partnerships, and member-centric policies, Abubakar Yakubu steps into office with momentum and with the industry watching closely as this new chapter begins.
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