Profile of Abubakar Yakubu, AGN’s first Northern president

Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, popularly known as Abuking, is a veteran Nigerian actor, producer and administrator who rose to national prominence in late 2025 after emerging as President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).

He was elected at the AGN national election held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, Edo State.

He won by a slim margin, polling 116 votes to defeat his closest rival, Rita Daniels, who secured 113 votes, while three votes were voided.

Background

Yakubu is a graduate of Dramatic Arts from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and has spent about 25 years working across film, television and stage acting.

Yakubu rose to prominence during the early years of Nollywood, featuring in several popular productions. Some of his notable films include Blind Trust (1997), Escape from Congo (1999), Jungle Justice (2000) and Emergency Wedding (2002).

His work during this period helped cement his reputation as a dependable character actor in the industry.

Journey within the Actors Guild

Beyond acting, Yakubu has played key roles in the administration of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), formerly known as the Nigeria Actors Guild (NAG).

He served as National Vice President between 1994 and 1995, National Treasurer from 2000 to 2001, Public Relations Officer between 2009 and 2011, and National Secretary from 2019 until his election as president.

Election as AGN President

Yakubu was elected National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in late 2025 at the guild’s national election held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, Edo State.

He secured 116 votes to defeat his closest rival, Rita Daniels, who polled 113 votes, while three votes were voided. The results were announced on a Saturday night.

His victory was historic, as he became the first actor from northern Nigeria to head the guild since its inception.

He succeeded Emeka Ejezie, popularly known as Emeka Rollas, MON, who completed his second term after being re-elected in 2022 and was barred by the AGN constitution from contesting again.

Controversy

Yakubu’s presidency began under intense public attention after he was arrested by the police over his involvement in a fatal car accident in Surulere, Lagos, just days after his election.

The incident has cast a shadow over his historic emergence, as investigations by law enforcement authorities continue.