Remembering Nollywood Stars Lost to Cancer
Cancer has tragically claimed the lives of several prominent Nigerian actors and actresses over the years. From seasoned screen veterans who spent decades entertaining audiences to younger stars whose promising careers were cut short, their deaths have left a lasting and profound impact on Nollywood.
The loss of these beloved entertainers has created a significant gap within Nigeria’s film industry. Audiences across the country and around the world continue to remember their memorable performances, iconic films, and lasting contributions to Nollywood.
Their personal health journeys also highlight the critical importance of paying attention to cancer symptoms, seeking medical advice early, and providing continuous support to individuals undergoing treatment.
Nollywood Actors and Actresses Who Battled Cancer
Here are 10 Nollywood actors and actresses who died after battling cancer:
1. Taiwo Hassan ‘Ogogo’
Filmmaker Taiwo Hassan, popularly known to audiences as Ogogo, died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66. Following his passing, his family disclosed that he had been diagnosed with stage-four cancer shortly before his death. His daughter, Kira, officially confirmed his death during an emotional live video broadcast.
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Ogogo spent several decades working in the Yoruba film industry and was widely celebrated as an actor, filmmaker, producer, and director.
2. Alex Ekubo
Popular actor Alex Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, at the age of 40, after battling advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
The actor was well known for his roles in several popular Nigerian movies and had successfully built a strong following throughout his professional career.
3. Sadiq Daba
Veteran actor and broadcaster Sadiq Daba died on March 3, 2021, at the age of 69.
Daba battled leukaemia and prostate cancer for several years before his death. He was widely remembered for his compelling role as Inspector Waziri in Kunle Afolayan’s acclaimed movie October 1, a performance for which he won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor.
4. Karibi Fubara
Actor Karibi Fubara died on December 14, 2021, at the age of 46.
Fubara was diagnosed with a kidney tumour/cancer in 2020 and subsequently underwent surgery. Despite receiving medical treatment, he later died after a prolonged battle with the disease.
He was widely known for his roles in movies and series including God Calling, Smart Money Woman, Castle & Castle, and Ratnik.
5. Aisha Abimbola
Yoruba film actress Aisha Abimbola, who was popularly known as Omoge Campus, died on May 15, 2018, at the age of 47.
She died in Canada after battling breast cancer. Abimbola became immensely popular through her performances in Yoruba films, particularly Omoge Campus, and also worked actively as a movie producer.
6. Ethel Ekpe
Veteran actress Ethel Ekpe died on February 5, 2024, at the age of 60, after battling cancer.
She was best known for playing the role of Segi in the popular television series Basi and Company. She also appeared in several other notable productions, including Forever, Sons of the Caliphate, and Heartbeats.
7. Remi Abiola
Veteran actress, producer, and director Remi Abiola died on July 29, 2009, at the age of 57.
She died in New York after battling cancer. Abiola was a deeply respected figure in the Nigerian film industry and was active in both acting and filmmaking for several decades.
8. Doris Chima
Veteran actress Doris Chima died on August 15, 2021, at the age of 63, after battling breast cancer.
She was recognized for her valuable contributions to Nollywood and appeared in numerous Nigerian film and television productions during her long career.
9. Tom Njemanze
Veteran Nollywood actor, Tom Njemanze, died in July 2025 at the age of 75 after battling prostate cancer.
Before his death, Njemanze appealed to the public for financial assistance in a video that was shared online. Njemanze became popular through his performances in well-known films including Issakaba, Osuofia in London, Pounds and Dollars, Brain Box, and Twin Brothers.
10. Stella Ikwuegbu
The veteran actress died on June 16, 2024, after battling leg cancer. Movie producer Stanley Nwoko announced Stella’s death and paid tribute to her contribution to the Nigerian film industry.
Ikwuegbu was known for playing motherly and elderly characters in numerous Nollywood productions.
