Kannywood Actor Mato Na Mato, Known As Malam Nata’ala, Dies After Battle With Cancer

Beloved Kannywood actor Mato Na Mato, popularly known as Malam Nata’ala, has died after a long battle with cancer.

The actor, who hailed from Potiskum in Yobe State, was best known for his role as an almajiri school teacher in the hit Hausa drama series “Dadin Kowa” on Arewa24, where his character became a household name across northern Nigeria.

Before his death, Nata’ala had appealed publicly for financial assistance to fund his medical treatment, drawing widespread sympathy and support. His plight reached Niger’s President, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who reportedly donated ₦27 million, and Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, who also contributed ₦2 million toward his treatment.

In August 2025, the actor expressed gratitude to his supporters, revealing the gravity of his condition:

“It’s cancer that I’m suffering from. Last year, I had surgery at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, but unfortunately, the cancer wasn’t completely removed. Later, my stomach began to swell again.”

Despite the financial and medical support he received, Nata’ala ultimately succumbed to the illness, marking a painful loss for the Kannywood film industry and his many fans who admired his talent, humor, and cultural depth on screen.