LAGOS — Popular Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba has died at the age of 40.
The news of her passing was confirmed on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the Yoruba movie industry and among her fans.
Osoba was widely known for her roles in Yoruba films and for her openness about her health journey. In December 2025 she marked her 40th birthday as a cancer survivor, sharing emotional reflections on Instagram about her battle.
“Today, I turn 40 — a milestone that once felt so far out of reach. I’ve walked through fear, pain, uncertainty, and nights that felt endless… but I’m still here. Stronger. Softer. Wiser. And incredibly grateful” she wrote at the time.
She revealed that she discovered a lump in her breast in 2023. After initial tests, it was confirmed to be cancerous. In November 2024 she underwent surgery to remove the tumour, followed by a second procedure to clear residual tissue.
“Surviving cancer changed me. It taught me how precious life is, how fragile moments can be, and how powerful hope truly is. I carry the scars, but I also carry the lessons — the courage I never knew I had, the love that held me together, and the quiet strength that kept whispering, ‘keep going’” she said.
Despite doctors warning that treatment could affect her ability to conceive for at least five years, Osoba returned to acting and filmmaking after her recovery. She premiered her movie _Cost of a Lie_ on her YouTube channel, TOPEOSOBATV, and had become an advocate for cancer awareness and early detection.
Colleagues and fans have taken to social media to mourn her, describing her as brave, talented and an inspiration to many who followed her cancer journey.
Details about funeral arrangements have not yet been announced by her family.
