Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has revealed that he had planned to appoint veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, as his special adviser on culture and tourism if he becomes governor of Ogun State in 2027.
Yayi, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, reportedly disclosed the plan while speaking about the role of the creative industry and cultural figures in his proposed administration. He described Ogogo as an elder brother and expressed confidence in the actor’s ability to contribute to the development of culture and tourism.
“My plan was that Ogogo will be my Special Adviser on Tourism and Culture,” Yayi said, according to reports.
The proposed appointment highlights the increasing attention being given to Nigeria’s entertainment and creative sectors as potential drivers of tourism, employment and economic development.
Yayi’s comments are particularly relevant to Ogun State, which has a strong cultural heritage and is home to numerous historic sites, festivals and prominent figures in Nigeria’s arts and entertainment industry. Harnessing these assets could help attract visitors, create jobs and generate additional revenue for the state.
The senator’s disclosure also places the creative industry within the broader political conversation ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Political candidates across the country are expected to present policies aimed at attracting young people and professionals from sectors such as entertainment, tourism and technology.
However, the proposed role remains a campaign plan and would depend on the outcome of the 2027 election and any subsequent decisions by a Yayi-led administration.
Taiwo Hassan, popularly called Ogogo, is a veteran Yoruba-language actor and filmmaker who has built a decades-long career in Nollywood. His extensive involvement in Yoruba cinema has made him one of the recognisable figures in Nigeria’s indigenous entertainment industry.
Yayi’s proposed appointment therefore underscores the potential role of experienced creative professionals in shaping cultural and tourism policies in Ogun State.
