Kannywood has lost one of its brightest stars. Wasila Isma'il, a veteran actress, died on Sunday at age 46.
Her ex-husband, Al-Amin Chiroma, announced the death on social media. She passed away at FOMWAN hospital in Kaduna, leaving behind four children.
Isma'il launched her acting career in the late 1990s with her debut film, Jinin Masoyi. Her breakthrough came through the film Wasila, directed by Yakubu Lere and Ali Nuhu.
Beyond the silver screen, she worked as a broadcaster. Liberty Radio in Kaduna benefited from her talents over the years.
The Nigerian Film Corporation's Managing Director, Ali Nuhu, mourned her loss online. In a Facebook post, he expressed his grief and offered prayers for her soul.
"Surely we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return," Nuhu wrote. "May Allah have mercy on you and forgive you.
May Allah grant your soul eternal rest."
Industry colleagues have begun paying tribute to the late actress. Many remembered her as a pioneering figure who shaped Kannywood's golden era.
Her family has not yet announced funeral arrangements. The entertainment community continues to reel from the unexpected news.
