Francis Duru: Veteran Nollywood Actor Dies, Actors Guild of Nigeria President Confirms Death

• Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, announced Francis Duru's death on Instagram on Thursday, October 22, 2026
• Duru was widely celebrated as one of Nollywood's most respected veteran actors, known for his memorable screen performances
• Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with tributes following the announcement of his untimely passing

Veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has died, with the news confirmed by one of Nigeria's most senior figures in the film industry.

Alhaji Abubakar Sanusi Yakubu, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, broke the news on his personal Instagram page on Thursday, October 22, 2026.

Sharing a photo of the late Francis Duru, his post read:

"Another great thespian gone...Rest in peace Francis Duru!!"

No official cause of death has been provided at the time of the announcement.

In June 2026, Duru dismissed rumours, claiming he was battling a terminal illness following the circulation of a viral video that sparked concern from fans and colleagues.

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The late actor had also previously debunked false reports of his death in recent years.

Francis Duru's Nollywood legacy

Duru built a celebrated career in the Nigerian film industry, earning a reputation as one of the more versatile and dependable actors of his generation.

Known for his commanding on-screen presence, he featured in numerous productions that cemented his status as a Nollywood staple.

According to MyNigeria reports, Duru was among the actors who helped define an era of Nigerian cinema that captivated audiences both at home and across the continent.

His passing adds to a wave of grief the Nigerian entertainment industry has experienced with the loss of several beloved performers in recent years.

The Instagram post announcing Francis Duru's death is below:

Reactions to Francis Duru's death

Fans and fellow creatives wasted no time pouring out their condolences across social media after the news broke.

YEN.com.gh compiled some reactions from social media users below:

@bomaakpore wrote:

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"May his soul rest in peace 🙏🏾."

@pauleexytv____ said:

"Jesus Christ, what has happened to him? Not again, God."

@officialolotu9 commented:

"One of the best that graced the screen."

@ladysanrealtyproperties added:

"It is a lie. My God. How?"

Source: YEN.com.gh