Nollywood star Saidi Balogun’s son Jamal has disclosed that his sister Zeenat passed away due to complications from sickle cell disease.
Balogun’s first child from his prior marriage to Sherifat, Zeenat, died in October 2024. Her cause of death, however, was not made public.
In a recent Instagram video shared by Balogun’s son Khalid, the actor’s kids and Zeenat’s friends commemorated her posthumous birthday.
In the video, Jamal disclosed that Zeenat persevered in the face of sickle cell disease and never let it define her life.
“Zeenat Balogun died from complications related to sickle cell disease. She was a warrior who remained strong even in her moments of pain. She endured it with humility and strength, and it never defined any aspect of her life,” he said in the clip.
“She was a happy person. Even when she was admitted to the hospital, she remained jovial with everyone around her and always left a positive impact on those she met.”
The Balogun family disclosed that the video is also in commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day, aimed at honouring Zeenat’s memory while raising awareness about sickle cell disease and celebrating those living with the condition.
“Today, the Balogun family remembers and celebrates the life of our beloved firstborn, Zeenat Balogun, on her posthumous birthday. Though her journey was marked by the challenges of Sickle Cell Anemia, she faced every battle with remarkable strength, courage, and grace, leaving behind memories that continue to inspire us every day,” the caption reads.
“As we honor her birthday, we also commemorate World Sickle Cell Day through this tribute video- raising awareness, celebrating resilience, and remembering the countless warriors fighting this condition. Zeenat may no longer be with us physically, but her love, light, and legacy remain forever alive in our hearts.”
Today, as we remember Zeenat on what would have been her birthday, we pray that her soul finds eternal peace in heaven. May her memory continue to inspire love and kindness in our hearts. We also lift up all those battling sickle cell disease, asking for God’s strength, healing, and comfort to be with them.
May He grant them courage and unwavering faith, and may they feel His presence every step of the way.
Live with Purpose, Love with Passion. Remember to be happy
One 
Rose Ajieh
