The Chief of Staff of the Army (COAS), Major-General Faruk Yahaya on Monday donated two million naira to veteran actor Usman Baba Pategi, known as Samanja Mazan Fama, in Kaduna.
Samanja, a retired Staff Sergeant of the Nigerian Army, veteran actor, scriptwriter and director, is currently battling an undisclosed ailment. He became very popular for his now-rested TV series, Samanja, that ruled the airwaves in the 80s.
Following reports of his ailment, the Army Chief sent his representatives to pay him a visit on Monday, July 5 where the N2 million towards his medical bills was announced.
NAN reports that the artist has denied the rumors that circulated about his death on social networks a few days ago.
COAS was represented by Brigadier General Vitalis Okoro, Chief of Staff of the Commanding General Officer (GOC) 1 Nigerian Army Division, Kaduna.
Yahaya explained that he was made aware of the veteran actor’s health issues and felt compelled to lend his support.
He said the Nigerian military is proud to identify with notable public figures who have had a positive impact on society.
According to him, the Nigerian military was excited by the way Samanja positively projected the image of the military by giving the Nigerian public a glimpse into life in the army barracks.
With this important role, he was able to carve out a niche in the entertainment industry.
Besides, whatever Samanja has done to portray the military in a positive light, he remains an icon of the Nigerian military, he said.
While responding, the visibly elated Samanja, who recalled with nostalgia his time in the military, expressed his immense gratitude to SFOC for identifying with him.
He called on all Nigerians to be patriots and prayed for the continued peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.
He called on young people to always engage in meaningful projects that will benefit them in life.
Additionally, one of her daughters, Miss Amina Usman, described her father as a caring and loving father.
She appreciated the Nigerian military for identifying with the Samanja family.