It is with great sadness that we report the passing of renowned Nollywood producer, director, and actor Kayode Peters, who died peacefully in Toronto, Canada, on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, after a prolonged illness.
Career Timeline and Highlights
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Early 2000s: Peters began his professional journey shortly after graduating from the University of Lagos with a degree in English Language. In 2000, he produced his first television series, Twilight Zone, a project he undertook with minimal resources, even personally handling the camera and script distribution. This grassroots effort marked his determination and passion for storytelling.
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Early to Mid-2000s: He gained widespread recognition as a director on the iconic comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company, working alongside veteran Wale Adenuga while still in university. This experience grounded him in the technical and creative aspects of TV directing and acting.
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Mid-2000s: Peters produced Flatmates (also known as My Flatmates), a hit sitcom that became a household favorite across Nigeria. The show featured prominent comedians such as Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi and was instrumental in launching the careers of many young talents.
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2018: He expanded his horizons internationally by producing Excuse My African, his first foreign-based movie filmed in New York City, showcasing his versatility and ambition to tell African stories on a global stage.
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2021: Peters directed the romantic drama 13 Letters, which premiered on Netflix and starred Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Teddy A. The film was praised for its fresh narrative exploring themes of love and betrayal. That year, he also directed several other projects including Meet My Girlfriends, Sisi Eko, and Crazy Grannies, further cementing his reputation as a prolific filmmaker.
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Other Notable Works: Over the years, Peters directed and produced numerous stage plays, documentaries, and TV series such as Crossworld Blues (the first comedy series aired on DBN TV), Extended Family, Being Farouk, Dream Job, and The Real Us. His storytelling often combined humor with poignant reflections on Nigerian life and culture.
Kayode Peters was a versatile and influential figure in Nigerian entertainment whose career spanned theatre, television, and film. Born on September 25, 1975, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Peters studied English Language at the University of Lagos, where his early involvement in theatre laid the foundation for his storytelling career. He later enhanced his skills with further studies in film and television production.
Peters first rose to prominence as the director of the iconic Nigerian comedy TV show Papa Ajasco and Company, a series that became a staple in Nigerian households. He further cemented his legacy by producing Flatmates, a hit sitcom in the early 2000s featuring notable comedians such as Basketmouth and Okey Bakassi. His work on Flatmates and other stage plays and sitcoms like Extended Family and Being Farouk played a significant role in shaping modern Nigerian comedy and television.
In addition to his television work, Peters was an accomplished film director. His 2021 romantic drama 13 Letters, which premiered on Netflix, was widely praised for its fresh narrative and strong performances from actors including Kunle Remi and Bimbo Ademoye. That same year, he directed several other projects such as Meet My Girlfriends, Sisi Eko, and Crazy Grannies, showcasing his range and commitment to telling diverse Nigerian stories.
Beyond his creative achievements, Kayode Peters was known for mentoring young talent, helping launch the careers of many emerging actors in Nollywood. His storytelling often reflected everyday Nigerian life, culture, and humor, blending comedy with meaningful messages.
Peters was also a family man, married to Nigerian model and actress Tayo Sobola, with whom he shared a private personal life.
His death marks a significant loss for the Nigerian entertainment industry. Kayode Peters leaves behind a rich legacy of work that entertained, inspired, and shaped Nollywood’s growth over the past two decades. As the industry mourns, his contributions will continue to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.
The statement from the family reads:
Family Statement on the Passing of Kayode Peters
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Kayode Peters on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a prolonged illness.
Kayode was not only a talented producer, director, and actor but also a devoted husband, son, brother, and friend. His passion for storytelling and commitment to uplifting Nigerian entertainment were unmatched. Though his illness was challenging, he faced it with courage and dignity until the end.
We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers around the world. Your kindness has been a source of comfort during this difficult time.
Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be shared in due course. We kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate the remarkable life of Kayode.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
— The Peters Family
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
