Rahama Sadau Mourns Father Amidst Thriving Career & New Festival Launch
KADUNA/ABUJA, Nigeria – June 23, 2025 – It's a bittersweet moment for acclaimed Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and singer, Rahama Sadau, who is currently mourning the loss of her beloved father, Alhaji Ibrahim Sadau. The sad news of his passing was confirmed on Sunday, June 22, 2025, sending condolences pouring in from across the Nigerian entertainment industry.
The talented star took to her verified Facebook page to announce the devastating news, simply stating, "ALLAH YAYI WA MAHAIFINA RASUWA.... I lost my father." Details surrounding the cause of death and funeral arrangements have not been widely disclosed, but the Kannywood and Nollywood communities have rallied around her during this difficult time.
A Pillar of Nigerian Entertainment:
Born in Kaduna State on December 7, 1993, Rahama Sadau has carved out an impressive career in both the Hausa-language film industry (Kannywood) and English-language Nollywood. Her journey began in 2013, quickly rising to prominence with her debut in "Gani ga Wane." She's known for her versatility, having starred in a wide range of films including "Up North," "Sons of the Caliphate," "Chief Daddy 2," "The Two Aishas," and the international Bollywood film "Khuda Haafiz" – making her one of the few Nigerian actresses proficient in Hindi.
Beyond acting, Sadau is a multi-faceted entrepreneur. She is the founder of Sadau Pictures, her own film production company, and also runs Sadau Beauty and an ice cream shop called Yogohamy in Kaduna. Her philanthropic efforts are channeled through her Ray of Hope Foundation, focusing on poverty alleviation, socio-economic development, and female empowerment.
A Visionary for Northern Nigeria's Creative Scene:
Adding to her impressive resume, just last month, Rahama Sadau announced a groundbreaking initiative: the launch of the Arewa International Film Festival (AIFF). This ambitious project, along with the Arewa Creative Workshop and Master Class (ACWM), aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria, bridge professionalism gaps in the industry, and empower the next generation of creatives in the region. Sadau envisions the festival as a platform to generate job opportunities and boost tourism, positioning Northern Nigeria as a significant player in the global film industry.
Upcoming Projects & Enduring Legacy:
Despite this personal loss, Sadau's influence in the industry continues to grow. Her upcoming film, "Mamah," is set to make history as the first Hausa movie to be screened at the prestigious Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia later this year (December 2024, as previously announced). She also continues to feature in various productions and in 2024, appeared in films like "The Waiter" and "Conversations in Transit." Her reality TV series, "Sadau Sisters," featuring her and her three sisters, premiered on Showmax in February 2024, offering a more personal glimpse into her life.
Rahama Sadau remains a formidable and inspiring figure in the African entertainment industry, consistently pushing boundaries and advocating for progress, even in times of personal sorrow. Her contributions to film, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy continue to leave an indelible mark.
