Tinubu Mourns Veteran Nollywood Actor Francis Duru at 57
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran Nollywood actor Richard Francis Duru, who passed away at the age of 57.
In a condolence statement issued on Friday, October 23, 2026, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to Duru’s family, colleagues, fans and the Nigerian film industry.
The President described the actor’s death as a painful loss to Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative community, recognising the contributions of veteran actors like Duru to the growth and development of the Nigerian film industry.
Duru’s family announced his death on Friday, stating that he passed away following a brief illness. The family did not disclose further details about the illness or the specific cause of death.
Francis Duru was one of Nollywood’s veteran actors, gaining widespread recognition for his role as Ahanna in Amaka Igwe’s 1995 classic film, Rattlesnake. He went on to feature in numerous Nigerian films throughout a career spanning more than three decades.
President Tinubu said Duru’s contributions to Nollywood would remain part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
He also asked God to grant the actor’s family, friends, colleagues and admirers the strength to bear the loss.
Duru’s death has sparked tributes from members of the Nigerian film industry and fans across the country.
