Sadiq Abubakar Daba, born in 1949 and passed away on March 3, 2021, was a celebrated Nigerian actor, broadcaster, and cultural figure whose career stretched across more than forty years. He captured the hearts of many Nigerians through his unforgettable role as Bitrus in the popular NTA drama series Cockcrow at Dawn in the early 1980s. Decades later, he earned renewed acclaim for his powerful performance as Inspector Waziri in Kunle Afolayan’s 2014 film October 1, a role that won him the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in 2015.
Although he was born in Sierra Leone, Daba traced his roots to Kano State in Nigeria. He spent his early years in Sierra Leone and attended St. Edward’s Secondary School before moving to Nigeria in 1968. His passion for learning led him to study in several institutions, including Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he completed his highest academic degree.
Daba’s journey in broadcasting began in the late 1960s when he worked as a radio announcer in Kaduna. He later joined the Nigerian Television Authority where he served for more than 35 years. During his time at NTA, he worked as a newsreader, reporter, actor, producer, and director, becoming one of the most familiar and respected faces on Nigerian television. His acting career blossomed in the late 1970s with the role of Bitrus in Cockcrow at Dawn, a television drama that became one of the most beloved shows in the country. His calm voice, expressive acting, and natural presence made him a household name.
In later years, Daba continued to shine on screen. Aside from his award winning performance in October 1, he also featured in notable films such as Citation which was released in 2020, and Eagle Wings which came out in 2021.
In 2018, members of the Nigerian film industry honored him with the title Garkuwan Nollywood, meaning the Shield of Nollywood, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to film and broadcasting.
After being diagnosed with leukemia and prostate cancer in 2017, Daba used his voice to promote cancer awareness. He took part in fundraising activities and joined Project Pink Blue’s walk against cancer on February 3, 2018, in commemoration of World Cancer Day.
Sadiq Daba was married to Bolaji Daba and was blessed with six children and several grandchildren. He passed away on March 3, 2021, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital after a long and courageous fight with illness. He was buried the following day at the Hausa Community Cemetery in Agege, Lagos.
His legacy remains strong. Through his dedication to storytelling, his service to broadcasting, and his commitment to social causes, Sadiq Daba left a lasting influence that continues to inspire people within Nigeria and far beyond.