The Nigerian film industry has been plunged into mourning following the passing of Moses Are Korede, widely known as Baba Gbenro, a stalwart of gospel cinema who succumbed to liver disease at the age of 65. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s faith-based filmmaking.
The somber announcement came through fellow actor Oluwaseun Adejumobi, who took to Instagram to share the devastating news with the simple yet poignant words, “Heaven’s Gain Again. General Has Gone to rest.” The announcement triggered an outpouring of grief across social media platforms, with countless fans and industry colleagues sharing memories and tributes to the late actor.
Baba Gbenro, who carved a distinctive niche in the gospel film sector, was particularly renowned for his compelling work with Mount Zion Faith Ministries, where his role in the acclaimed series “Abattoir” earned him widespread recognition. His performances were marked by a unique ability to blend deep emotional resonance with strong moral messaging, making him a beloved figure among viewers who sought both entertainment and spiritual enrichment.
Beyond his on-screen presence, Baba Gbenro’s impact on Nigeria’s entertainment landscape was far-reaching and multifaceted. As the founder of Calvary Movies Drama Ministry in Ogbomoso, he established himself as a pivotal figure in gospel filmmaking, creating a platform that would go on to influence countless lives. His vision for faith-based entertainment further expanded with the establishment of Calvary Movies Television, where he served as CEO, consistently delivering content that married spiritual values with compelling storytelling.
Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies lies in his commitment to nurturing emerging talent. Throughout his career, Baba Gbenro dedicated significant time and resources to mentoring young actors and producers, helping to shape the next generation of gospel filmmakers. His guidance and support have contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s faith-based entertainment sector, ensuring that his influence will continue to resonate long after his passing.
The veteran actor’s approach to his craft was characterized by an unwavering dedication to authenticity and spiritual depth. His performances consistently demonstrated an understanding of the delicate balance between entertainment and ministry, making him a respected figure not only in the entertainment industry but also in religious circles.
Survived by his wife, Bamike Are, Baba Gbenro’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian gospel cinema. His contributions to the industry went beyond mere entertainment; he helped establish gospel filmmaking as a legitimate and influential genre within Nigeria’s broader film industry. Through his work, he demonstrated that faith-based content could be both spiritually enriching and cinematically compelling.
The impact of his loss is being felt deeply across Nigeria’s entertainment landscape, with many industry figures reflecting on his role in shaping the direction of gospel filmmaking in the country. His death has sparked conversations about the legacy of faith-based entertainment in Nigeria and the continued importance of maintaining the high standards he helped establish.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the industry, many are remembering Baba Gbenro not just for his artistic contributions but for his role as a mentor, leader, and spiritual guide. His passing leaves a void in the Nigerian entertainment industry that will be difficult to fill, particularly in the specialized field of gospel filmmaking where he was considered a pioneer.
The loss of Baba Gbenro at 65 serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life while simultaneously highlighting the lasting impact one individual can have on an entire industry. His work, both on and off screen, has left an indelible mark on Nigerian cinema, particularly in how faith-based stories are told and presented to audiences.
As the Nigerian entertainment industry comes to terms with this significant loss, Baba Gbenro’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the artists he mentored, and the body of work he leaves behind. His passing marks not just the end of a life, but the close of a remarkable chapter in the history of Nigerian gospel cinema.
