Nigeria’s entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of Akinloye Tofowomo, popularly known as Akiin Shuga, a revered live-band icon. He passed away on Wednesday, October 30, 2025, in New Brunswick, Canada, just three months shy of his 51st birthday on January 6.

In a statement, the Tofowomo family said:

“It is with profound solemnity and total submission to the will of God that the family of Akinloye Tofowomo (Akiin Shuga) — revered music icon, Grandmaster, and Managing Director of Shuga Limb Foundation and Shuga Entertainment — announces his passing. We humbly request privacy and quiet reflection at this deeply difficult time.”

Born on January 6, 1975, in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Akiin Shuga defied polio, which struck him at the age of five, to become one of Nigeria’s most respected live-band performers and entertainment entrepreneurs.

He founded the Shuga Band in 1998, starting with performances at Pintos Bar, Ikeja, Lagos. The small ensemble eventually grew into a 14-piece band, renowned for high-profile weddings, corporate events, and state functions. His company, Shuga Entertainment, set a benchmark for professionalism in live performance in Nigeria.

Beyond performance, Akiin Shuga served as Founder and President of the Association of Music Band Owners of Nigeria (AMBON), advocating for live musicians and improving industry standards.

A colleague described him as:

“More than a performer; he was a reformer. He brought dignity to a profession often misunderstood and taught us to see ourselves as entrepreneurs and brand custodians, not just entertainers.”

Shuga’s discipline, innovation, and mentorship shaped generations of performers. He studied Music Business at Berklee College of Music, Boston, before returning to Nigeria to raise the standard of live music. He introduced corporate brand partnerships, stage choreography, and digital sound engineering — transforming live performance into a professional and sustainable industry.

As a voice for persons with disabilities, Akiin Shuga founded the Shuga Limb Foundation and, in 2018, was appointed Rotary International District Polio Ambassador for his advocacy.

Reke Ofano, leader of Shuga Band, reflected:

“Shuga never accepted mediocrity. He pushed everyone to give their best, but he also had a big heart. We were not just a band; we were family.”

Akiin Shuga’s death marks the loss of a trailblazer, mentor, and advocate, whose legacy in music and social advocacy will continue to inspire.