LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian film industry is in deep mourning following the passing of veteran actor and filmmaker Francis Duru, who has died at the age of 57.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led the nation in mourning, expressing profound sorrow over the death of the veteran screen icon.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Duru family, colleagues, and fans across the country.
”President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Francis Duru,” the statement read, describing the loss as a heavy blow to Nigeria’s creative community.
Colleagues and industry executives also shared their grief. Israel Audu, Director of the Kaduna International Film Festival, remembered Duru not just as a festival guest, but as a dedicated pillar of the community.
”Francis was a genuine friend of the vision, a consistent supporter of our mission,” Audu said. “With or without money, Francis would always find a way to make his journey to Kaduna to mentor emerging talent.”
Remembering a Consummate Thespian
Born in Cameroon to parents hailing from Imo State, Duru studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt before embarking on a stellar career that shaped the golden era of home videos in Nigeria.
He etched his name into Nollywood history with his iconic, unforgettable portrayal of Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s 1995 classic crime thriller, Rattlesnake. Over the years, he maintained a powerhouse presence on screen, featuring in critically acclaimed blockbusters such as Blood Money, Sound and Rhythm of Love, One Chance, and Merry Men.
Fellow actors took to social media to honor his memory and immense versatility:
Kanayo O. Kanayo: “A consummate actor has left the stage. One of the most flexible, prolific performers Nigeria ever produced. Rest in peace, my brother.”
Desmond Elliot: “Sad indeed! Rest in God’s grace. A true thespian has gone home!”
Kate Henshaw: “Like a flame gone out, so are our lives when it all ends.”
Mercy Johnson-Okojie: “Too tired and speechless about this loss.”
Stephanie Linus: Described his passing as tragic and heartbreaking, offering prayers of strength to his grieving family.
Abubakar Yakubu (AGN President): “Another great thespian gone. Rest in peace, Francis Duru!”
Beyond his on-screen brilliance, Duru will be remembered for his humility, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of African filmmakers.
Duru’s family announced his death in an official statement released on Friday, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from well-wishers worldwide.
”We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness,” the statement read. “We appreciate your prayers, love, and understanding. May his soul rest in perfect peace, amen.”
News of his death has triggered a wave of emotional tributes from political leaders, industry guilds, and colleagues who celebrated his decades-long contribution to Nollywood and the broader African cinema landscape.
