Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Ola Balogun has publicly disclosed his final wishes, directing that his organs be donated to patients in need while the rest of his body should be handed over to medical institutions for research and the training of future healthcare professionals after his death.
The celebrated filmmaker made the declaration in a public version of his last will and testament while receiving treatment at the Josek Medical Centre in Ogba, Lagos. The move followed a recent health challenge that occurred shortly after he marked his 81st birthday.
Balogun explained that he chose to make his wishes public instead of preparing a conventional legal will because of the uncertainty surrounding his health at the time.
According to him, he decided to put his intentions in writing after being admitted for treatment, unsure of the outcome of his latest battle with illness.
The veteran producer also revealed that his decision was influenced by the late nationalist and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose approach to preparing for death inspired him. Balogun said he believes that planning for the end of life should be as deliberate and organised as preparing for a long journey.
In his directive, Balogun stated that once medical professionals officially confirm his death, any organs that are still suitable for transplantation, including his kidneys and eyes, should be donated to people who need them.
He further instructed that after the organs have been removed, the remainder of his body should be transferred to recognised medical institutions to support scientific research and the practical training of medical students and future doctors.
Balogun said his decision is driven by the belief that his body should continue to serve humanity even after his passing, stressing that his remains could still contribute meaningfully to improving lives through medicine and education.
Widely regarded as one of the founding figures of Nigeria’s film industry, Ola Balogun has played a significant role in the growth of Nigerian cinema over several decades. His body of work includes feature films and documentaries produced in English, Yoruba, Igbo and Nigerian Pidgin.
Among his best-known productions are Alpha, Ija Ominira, Amadi, Nigersteel, Ajani Ogun, Musik Man and Oorun Moru. He is also recognised as a member of the pioneering generation of Nigerian filmmakers alongside legends such as Hubert Ogunde, Ade Love, Jab Adu and Moses Olaiya, popularly known as Baba Sala.
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