President Bola Tinubu, members of the Nollywood community, the Actors Guild of Nigeria and admirers have expressed grief over the death of veteran actor and filmmaker Francis Duru, who died at the age of 57.
The actor’s family confirmed his demise in a statement published on his official Instagram account on Friday.
While announcing the development, the family thanked supporters for their prayers, affection and understanding during the difficult period.
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.”
Following the announcement, tributes have continued to emerge from fellow actors, industry stakeholders and organisations, with many highlighting Duru’s enduring influence on Nollywood and the broader African film industry. Those who paid their respects celebrated his achievements on screen, his dedication to the creative sector and his support for aspiring entertainers.
President Tinubu also conveyed his sympathies to the deceased’s family, professional associates, admirers and the Nigerian film industry. In a statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Duru’s passing as a significant loss to the country’s entertainment sector and creative community. The statement read in part, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Francis Duru, extending his heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, fans and the Nigerian film industry.”
Israel Audu, Director of the Kaduna International Film Festival, described the actor’s death as a deeply personal loss and a major setback for African cinema. Audu recalled Duru’s longstanding relationship with the festival, noting that the actor consistently supported its objectives and made efforts to encourage upcoming filmmakers and performers, even when resources were limited. He said, “Francis was not merely a guest at our festival; he was a genuine friend of the vision, a consistent supporter of our mission. With or without money, Francis would always find a way to make his journey to Kaduna to mentor emerging talent.”
Veteran actor Kanayo Kanayo also paid tribute to his colleague in a post on Instagram, describing Duru as an exceptionally versatile performer whose productivity and range distinguished him in the Nigerian film industry. He wrote, “A consummate actor has left the stage. One of the most flexible, prolific performers Nigeria ever produced. Rest in peace, my brother.”
Actress Kate Henshaw joined other colleagues in mourning the late filmmaker, sharing a brief reflection on the fleeting nature of life. In her tribute, she wrote, “Like a flame gone out, so are our lives when it all ends.”
Mercy Johnson-Okojie also expressed her sadness over the loss, admitting that she was struggling to find the words to describe her feelings. The actress said, “Too tired and speechless about this loss.”
Similarly, actress Stephanie Linus described Duru’s death as tragic and heartbreaking. She also offered prayers for his family, asking for strength and comfort as they come to terms with his passing.
Actor and politician Desmond Elliot expressed his sorrow in a tribute celebrating Duru’s contribution to the performing arts. He wrote, “Sad indeed! Rest in God’s grace. A true thespian has gone home!”
The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Yakubu, also joined the growing list of mourners, acknowledging the loss of another respected figure in the acting profession. He wrote, “Another great thespian gone. Rest in peace, Francis Duru!”
Duru enjoyed a career spanning several decades, earning recognition as one of Nollywood’s familiar faces through his performances in numerous film productions. Among his best-known roles was his portrayal of Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the 1995 film directed by Amaka Igwe, which remains one of the notable works associated with his career.
His film credits also included Sound and Rhythm of Love, Blood Money, One Chance and Merry Men, productions that contributed to his longstanding presence in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Born in Cameroon to parents from Imo State, Duru pursued his interest in the performing arts by studying Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt. After completing his studies, he went on to establish himself in the Nigerian film industry, building a career that earned him recognition among audiences and fellow practitioners.
In addition to his work in front of the camera, Duru was remembered for his commitment to mentoring younger entertainers and supporting initiatives designed to nurture emerging talent. His death has prompted renewed tributes to his contributions to filmmaking and the development of the next generation of practitioners in Nigeria’s creative industry.
