The Nollywood industry, Nigeria’s vibrant film sector, has faced significant losses with the passing of numerous prominent actors, actresses, and filmmakers, particularly in recent years. While the industry itself remains a cultural and economic powerhouse, producing over 2,500 films annually and ranking as the world’s second-largest film industry by volume, the deaths of key figures have cast a shadow over its growth and sparked conversations about safety, health, and working conditions. Below is an overview of the recent losses in Nollywood, based on available information, and their impact on the industry:
Notable Deaths in Nollywood (2023–2025)
The Nigerian film industry has mourned the loss of several iconic figures in recent years, with 2024 being particularly devastating. Here are some key individuals who passed away, as reported in recent sources:2023 Losses:Peace Anyiam-Osigwe (January 9, 2023): Known as the “Queen of Nollywood,” she founded the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) and was a pivotal figure in promoting Nigerian cinema globally. She died at 53 from a heart attack.
Murphy Afolabi (May 14, 2023): A Yoruba film star who appeared in over 100 movies, died at 49 after a fall, shortly after his birthday.
Fadeyi Oloro (March 7, 2023): A veteran Yoruba actor known for his roles as a traditional warlord, passed away at 66 after a prolonged illness.
Iyabo Oko (June 28, 2023): A comedic Yoruba actress, died at 61 after battling an illness.
Saint Obi (May 7, 2023): A prominent actor from the late 90s and 2000s, passed away at 57 after an undisclosed illness.
2024 Losses:Deji Akinremi (Olofa Ina) (January 4, 2024): A veteran Yoruba actor known for roles as a traditional chief, died at 73 after an illness.
Jimi Solanke (February 5, 2024): A revered actor and dramatist, known for Tales by Moonlight, died at 81 after a prolonged illness.
Ethel Ekpe (February 7, 2024): Known for her role in Basi and Company, passed away from cancer at an unspecified age.
John Okafor (Mr. Ibu) (March 2, 2024): A beloved comic actor, died at 62 after a two-year battle with diabetes, which led to leg amputation.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji (Sisi Quadri) (March 1, 2024): A popular Yoruba comic actor, died at 44 from an undisclosed illness.
Amaechi Muonagor (March 24, 2024): Known for comedic and dramatic roles, died at 62 after struggling with kidney disease.
Adejumoke Aderounmu (April 6, 2024): Famous for her role in Jenifa’s Diary, passed away at 40 due to an undisclosed illness.
Junior Pope (Pope Odonwodo) (April 10, 2024): A prominent actor, drowned at 39 in a boat accident on the River Niger while returning from a film set, alongside three others. This tragedy prompted significant industry reflection on safety.
Reginald Ebere (May 26, 2024): A filmmaker known for writing Issakaba, died after years of health challenges following a stroke.
Sharon Okpamen (August 24, 2024): An actress and producer, died at 35 due to childbirth complications.
Yusuf Olorungbebe (August 28, 2024): A Yoruba actor and production manager, died after a chronic illness.
Shina Sanyaolu (September 12, 2024): A renowned Yoruba filmmaker, cause of death undisclosed.
Big Larry (September 13, 2024): An actor known for impactful roles, cause of death undisclosed.
Charles Olumo (Agbako) (October 31, 2024): The oldest Nollywood actor, died at 101, leaving a lasting legacy.
23 Total Reported Deaths in 2024: Sources indicate at least 23 Nollywood stars passed away in 2024, though not all names were detailed in the provided references.
2025 Losses:
Columbus Irosanga (February 2025): A veteran actor and academic, known for his role in Issakaba, passed away, with the cause undisclosed.
Pat Ugwu (February 2025): An actress whose sudden death was announced, the cause not specified.
Nkechi Nweje (March 2025): Known for motherly roles, died after a brief illness.
Kayode Peters (July 2025): A filmmaker and actor died in Canada under undisclosed circumstances.
Esther Oluwaseun Titilope Odeniyi (Berry White) (July 2025): A fast-rising actress died after collapsing in her apartment; the cause is unclear.
Impact on Nollywood
Cultural and Emotional Loss: These deaths represent a significant loss of talent, experience, and cultural heritage. Veterans like Charles Olumo and Jimi Solanke were pioneers who shaped Nollywood’s identity, while younger stars like Junior Pope and Adejumoke Aderounmu were key to its modern evolution. Their passing leaves gaps in both the Yoruba and English-speaking sectors of the industry.
Safety Concerns: The tragic death of Junior Pope in a boat accident highlighted Nollywood’s poor safety standards, particularly for smaller production houses. The Actors Guild of Nigeria responded by suspending filming in riverine areas and calling for stricter safety protocols. A preliminary report by the Nigerian Safety Investigations Bureau cited multiple failings in the incident, prompting actors like Chidi Dike and Kadiri to advocate for improved safety measures.
Health and Welfare Issues: Many actors, such as Amaechi Muonagor and John Okafor, publicly sought financial help for medical treatment, pointing to a lack of robust healthcare support or insurance within the industry. Chronic illnesses, cancer, and undisclosed ailments were common causes of death, suggesting a need for better health infrastructure for entertainers.
Industry Reflection and Reform: The string of deaths has sparked discussions about working conditions, including long hours, risky filming environments, and financial instability. The industry’s reliance on low-budget productions and the absence of standardized safety and welfare systems have been criticized. The Actors Guild and other stakeholders are pushing for reforms to address these issues.
Conclusion
The “death” of Nollywood is not literal, as the industry remains vibrant, but the loss of so many stars in a short period has deeply affected its community and highlighted structural challenges. The industry is at a crossroads, with calls for better safety standards, health support, and professionalization growing louder. While Nollywood mourns, the legacies of these stars continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and actors. If you’d like more details on specific individuals, safety reforms, or Nollywood’s current state, let me know!
