Nigeria has lost one of its brightest musical lights — Akinloye Tofowomo, fondly known as Akiin Shuga, the founder and band leader of the renowned Shuga Band.
The talented performer and entrepreneur passed away on October 30, 2025, in New Brunswick, Canada, at the age of 50, his family confirmed in an emotional statement.
Describing him as “a custodian of rhythm, culture, and performance,” the family paid tribute to his remarkable journey and his lasting influence on Nigeria’s live music scene.
“Akinloye Tofowomo was more than a musician; he was an inspiration and an institution — a true king in his art,” the statement read.
They highlighted his over three decades of excellence, praising his leadership, creativity, and the enduring legacy he built through the Shuga Band and Shuga Entertainment.
The family also appealed for privacy as they mourn their loss, assuring that memorial details would be shared later.
Born on January 6, 1975, in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Akiin Shuga’s story was one of resilience and triumph. Struck by polio at the age of five, he defied the odds and rose to become one of Nigeria’s most respected live performers.
His passion for music birthed Shuga Band in 1998, starting from modest performances in Lagos before growing into a 14-member ensemble known for its vibrant energy and class at high-profile events across the country.
Through Shuga Entertainment, he redefined live music, blending genres, mentoring young artists, and setting a new standard for professionalism and performance in Nigeria’s entertainment space.
He also served as the founding president of the Association of Music Band Owners of Nigeria (AMBON), advocating for better welfare and recognition for musicians nationwide.
Tributes have since flooded social media, with colleagues and fans remembering Akiin Shuga as a man who spread joy through every note he played.
His legacy — of passion, perseverance, and purpose — continues to live on through his music and the lives he touched.
As his family beautifully said,
“Akinloye Tofowomo’s rhythm may have stopped, but his music will play forever.”
