Veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, was receiving specialist cancer care in Nigeria,after actress Toyosi Adesanya announced that the 66-year-old actor had been admitted to an operating theatre for treatment.

The development offers a fresh measure of hope for the veteran Yoruba actor, whose family raised an emotional appeal for medical assistance earlier this week after revealing that he was battling stage-four cancer.

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Adesanya said Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, had personally intervened by connecting Ogogo with leading cancer specialists.

“Senator Yayi personally reached out to top cancer specialists, and we are grateful to learn that Ogogo has now been admitted to the operating theatre for treatment,” Adesanya said in an Instagram post.

She prayed for a successful procedure, renewed strength and a full recovery for the veteran actor.

“Ogogo, we are standing with you. You will come out stronger!” she added.

The update follows an anxious appeal from Ogogo’s daughters, Lima and Kira Taiwo, who disclosed earlier this week that their father had been diagnosed with stage-four cancer.

Kira said the family had discovered the seriousness of the illness about three weeks earlier and that the disease had affected his abdomen.

She also said some medical facilities had indicated that they could no longer continue chemotherapy, prompting the family to seek further specialist assistance.

Lima similarly appealed for medical help, stressing that the family’s immediate concern was securing treatment rather than raising money.

The appeals generated widespread concern among colleagues, fans and well-wishers, with several members of the Nigerian film industry joining calls for urgent medical support.

The latest development marks a significant shift from the uncertainty surrounding Ogogo’s treatment to a situation in which specialist intervention has reportedly been secured.

Adesanya also expressed appreciation to Nigerians and members of the entertainment industry who have offered prayers, medical suggestions and other forms of support.

Senator Adeola’s involvement has also become an important part of the family’s response to the crisis.

Kira previously acknowledged the senator’s assistance with her father’s medical expenses, while Lima said Adeola had pledged to continue supporting the family.

The relationship between Adeola and Ogogo predates the present health crisis.

Adeola previously made headlines in 2020 when he presented Ogogo with a new Toyota Venza SUV as the actor marked his 60th birthday.

Ogogo, who was born on October 31, 1959, has spent decades in the Nigerian entertainment industry and remains one of the recognised figures in Yoruba-language cinema.

His career began in theatre before he became prominent as an actor, producer and director.

The veteran also remained publicly active shortly before the current health concerns became known.

In July, Ogogo attended the commissioning of a modern swimming pool at Amazon Luxury Apartments in Ilaro, Ogun State, where he praised the investment in the community.

Adesanya herself has a longstanding professional connection with Ogogo.

She has previously described Ogogo as one of the figures who trained and guided her during her early years with the Odunfa Caucus, the theatre group associated with several prominent Yoruba actors.

While the latest update is encouraging, details about the specific procedure, the hospital providing the treatment and Ogogo’s immediate medical prognosis have not been publicly disclosed.

The family has also not announced the precise type of cancer affecting the actor.

For now, the message from colleagues and supporters remains one of cautious optimism as Ogogo receives further medical attention.

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The veteran actor’s health battle has drawn a powerful show of solidarity from Nigeria’s entertainment community, with Adesanya urging continued prayers and support as Ogogo undergoes treatment.