Renowned Nigerian music video director ThankGod Omori Smith, popularly known as TG Omori or Boy Director, has made an inspiring return to work following a challenging period marked by an unsuccessful kidney transplant procedure. The celebrated cinematographer shared a poignant image of himself back behind the camera on a music video set, signaling his determination to resume his creative journey despite medical setbacks.
Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) platform on Tuesday, Omori shared a candid moment with his followers, posting a photograph of himself wielding his camera on set with the contemplative caption, “Let’s see if I can still do this.” The post marks a significant milestone in his recovery journey and return to the Nigerian music industry, where he has established himself as one of the most sought-after music video directors.
The director’s medical journey began in August 2024 when he underwent a kidney transplant at St. Nicholas Hospital in Lagos. In a touching display of familial love and sacrifice, Omori’s only brother stepped forward as the organ donor, offering one of his kidneys to give the director a chance at renewed health. Despite the profound gesture and medical intervention, the transplant procedure unfortunately did not yield the desired outcome.
Throughout his health struggles, Omori has maintained remarkable transparency with his followers about his medical challenges. In October 2024, he shared that he had undergone multiple surgical procedures, revealing that he had been in the operating theater three times. Despite these difficulties, he maintained an unwavering spirit, expressing his belief that his story was far from over.
The director’s resilience has been particularly evident in his social media presence, where he continues to share updates about his journey. In a recent Instagram story featuring stylish self-portraits, Omori reflected on his anticipation of returning to his craft, writing, “God bless the day I touch the camera again.” He followed this with an encouraging message to his supporters: “The darkness will be over soon.
Prior to his health challenges, TG Omori had established himself as a cornerstone figure in Nigeria’s music video industry, directing visually stunning videos for many of the country’s biggest artists. His work has been characterized by innovative cinematography and distinctive visual storytelling, earning him the moniker “Boy Director” and a reputation for excellence in the industry.
Despite the setback of the failed transplant, Omori has maintained an optimistic outlook toward his future in cinematography. In a heartfelt message to his followers, he expressed: “I’m healing now from the stitches of the failed one, I’ll continue the fight. I’ve been on it for the past year or two, and I can’t back down now. Love you all so much. Can’t wait to create new, crowded music videos for you all.
The director’s journey has resonated deeply within the Nigerian entertainment community, with many artists and industry colleagues expressing support for his recovery. His situation has also brought attention to the challenges of kidney disease and the importance of organ donation, particularly within the context of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Omori’s return to work represents more than just a professional comeback; it stands as a testament to human resilience and the power of maintaining hope in the face of significant health challenges. His openness about his medical journey has helped bring awareness to kidney disease while inspiring others facing similar health battles.
As TG Omori steps back behind the camera, his return to directing marks not just a personal triumph but a moment of celebration for the Nigerian music industry. His commitment to continuing his creative work despite health challenges demonstrates the indomitable spirit that has characterized his career and serves as an inspiration to many in the creative industry and beyond.
The coming months will likely reveal new works from the director as he gradually returns to full activity, with many in the industry eagerly anticipating the visual narratives he will create in this new chapter of his career.