Cancer and Nollywood: Remembering Nigerian Entertainment Stars Lost to the Disease
The Nigerian entertainment industry has continued to mourn several prominent actors and musicians who tragically lost their lives to cancer over the years, sparking renewed conversations about awareness, early detection, and treatment access in the country.
Many of the late stars were open about their battles, while others kept their health struggles private until their passing.
Among those reported to have died from cancer complications is Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who reportedly passed away on May 11, 2026, following complications linked to kidney cancer.
Veteran actor Tom Njemanze also died in 2025 after a battle with prostate cancer, shortly after publicly seeking financial assistance for surgery.
Other Nollywood figures include Ify Onwuemene, who died in 2021 after a long fight with stage 4 endometrial cancer, and Aishat Abimbola, popularly known as “Omoge Campus,” who passed away in 2018 after battling breast cancer.
Veteran actress Doris Chima also reportedly died from complications linked to breast cancer, having previously undergone treatment that included breast removal.
In the music industry, reggae icon Majek Fashek died in 2020 after battling esophageal cancer, while legendary activist and singer Sonny Okosun passed away in 2008 from colon cancer.
Gospel singer Aduke Gold also died in 2024 after a battle with cervical cancer, while Afrobeat pioneer Sound Sultan died in 2021 from a rare blood cancer known as angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.
Opinion
These repeated losses highlight a deeper concern beyond entertainment—late diagnosis, limited access to specialized treatment, and the cost of long-term cancer care in Nigeria.
While awareness has improved over the years, many cases still come to public attention at advanced stages, when treatment options are limited.
The conversation around these deaths continues to emphasize the importance of early screening, public health education, and stronger healthcare support systems for both celebrities and ordinary citizens alike.
