President Tinubu Mourns Nollywood Veteran Francis Duru

According to a report by Punch Newspaper on Friday October 23, 2026, President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the family, colleagues and fans of veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, who died at the age of 57 following a brief illness.

The President described Duru’s death as a painful loss to the Nigerian film industry and the country’s creative community. The actor’s family announced his death on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday.

Tinubu’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The statement said the President recognized the role Duru and other veteran actors played in building Nigeria’s film industry and shaping its identity.

President Tinubu acknowledges the important role veteran actors like Duru played in the growth and development of Nigeria’s film industry, particularly in shaping its artistic identity, nurturing emerging talent, and projecting Nigerian stories, culture, and values to audiences at home and abroad, the statement read.

Tinubu said the work of artists who devote their lives to entertaining, educating and inspiring the public continues to matter after their deaths.

He added that Duru’s contributions would remain part of Nollywood’s history and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

The President extended his sympathies to Duru’s family, friends, colleagues and admirers, and prayed for strength for those mourning him.

He also acknowledged the grief of members of the film community, where the actor had built a career spanning decades.

Duru was widely recognized as one of Nollywood’s veteran performers. His career included roles across film and television, and his work helped introduce audiences to stories rooted in Nigerian life and culture.

The President’s statement noted his contribution to nurturing emerging talent and bringing Nigerian stories to viewers at home and abroad.

The family’s announcement did not provide further details about the circumstances of his death or funeral arrangements.

Duru’s passing at 57 has prompted tributes from across the creative community, as colleagues and fans remember his work and influence.

Tinubu said the legacies of artists who use their craft to entertain, educate and inspire endure beyond their lifetime. He added that Duru’s body of work would continue to be remembered as part of the country’s cultural record.

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