The Nigerian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran set designer and art director, Pat Nebo. His passing was confirmed on Thursday, September 14, by entertainment journalist and lecturer, Shaibu Husseini.
Husseini shared the sad news on social media, saying, “I have been reliably informed that foremost Nigerian Production Designer, Pat Nebo is dead. He has been bedridden for a while now. Journey well master of the craft of production design.”
Pat Nebo, a stalwart in the Nigerian film industry, had dedicated approximately three decades of his life to his craft, becoming an undisputed authority in the field of production and set design. He was renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element of a set contributed to the authenticity of a scene.
Nebo embarked on his career in 1993 with a role as a production designer in the film ‘Ti Oluwa Nile.’ He continued to make significant contributions to the industry, working on notable projects such as the sequels to ‘Ti Oluwa ni Ile,’ ‘The Figurine’ (2009), where he even took on an acting role as the ‘Marriage Registrar,’ and ’76’ (2016), where he portrayed Colonel Ali. His work as a production designer extended to various films, including ‘Araromire,’ ‘Arugba,’ ‘Alero’s Symphony,’ ‘October 1,’ ‘Being Mrs. Elliot,’ ‘The Milkmaid,’ ‘Lionheart,’ and most recently, Kunle Afolayan’s ‘Citation.’
Pat Nebo’s dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades, notably the 2017 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Art Director for his exceptional work in the film ’76.’ His legacy in the Nigerian film industry will undoubtedly endure, as his contributions have left an indelible mark on the art of production design.
