Another veteran Nollywood actor dies at 57

We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness. We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen

Another Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died days after he made a video assuring his fans that he was not critically ill as was portrayed in a story that circulated on social media.

His family announced his passing in the early hours of Friday, October 23, 2026.

According to a statement shared via his official verified Instagram page, Francis Duru, died after a brief illness.

The statement read: “We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness. We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen”

Francis Duru was 57 years old. His death came about two years after the death of his youngest son, Ifeanyi, in 2024.

Duru began his acting career in 1989 with Missing Mark, a film directed by the late Ndubuisi Oko.

Duru was a recipient of several awards and honours for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry. He was also named a United Nations ambassador of peace in recognition of his influence on young people.

In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his performance in Mboputa.

Duru married Adokiye in 2003, and they had four children together. They lost one of their children, Ifeanyi, in August 2024.