The Nigerian entertainment industry has recorded several losses in 2026, with the deaths of popular actors, actresses and gospel singers leaving fans and colleagues in mourning.
From veteran Nollywood stars who spent decades entertaining audiences to younger performers who were still building their careers, the industry has lost talented individuals whose contributions will not be forgotten.
Some of these celebrities were known for their memorable movie roles, while others gained recognition through their music and performances.
Here are 10 Nigerian celebrities who died in 2026:
1.Olu Jacobs
Veteran Nollywood actor Olu Jacobs died on September 16, 2026, at the age of 84. His death was announced by his wife, actress Joke Silva, and their son. He was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning several decades across theatre, television and film. He was remembered for his powerful screen presence and contributions to the growth of Nollywood.
2. Francis Duru
Popular Nollywood actor Francis Duru died on October 23, 2026, at the age of 57 following a brief illness. His family announced his death in a statement shared on his official Instagram page. He gained recognition for playing Ahanna in the classic movie Rattlesnake and went on to feature in several other productions during his career.
3. Taiwo Hassan (Ogogo)
Veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, died on August 23, 2026, at the age of 66. He was one of the familiar faces in Yoruba-language films and spent several decades entertaining audiences. His memorable performances and contributions to indigenous Nigerian cinema earned him recognition across generations.
4. Alexx Ekubo
Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo died in May 2026 at the age of 40. He became popular after emerging as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition. He later established himself as an actor, featuring in movies such as The Blood Covenant, A Man for the Weekend and Afamefuna: An Nwa-Boi Story.
5. Kola Oyewo
Veteran actor, dramatist and theatre scholar Kola Oyewo died on June 12, 2026, at the age of 80. He began his acting career in 1964 and became one of the respected figures in Nigerian theatre and film. He was particularly remembered for playing Odewale in the stage and film adaptations of The Gods Are Not to Blame.
6. Temitope Osoba
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Temitope Osoba died on August 5, 2026. She began her acting career in 2005 and featured in several Yoruba-language movies. Apart from acting, she was also involved in dancing and film production. She had previously spoken about her battle with breast cancer, and her death attracted tributes from colleagues and fans.
7. Oby Kechere (Madam Koi Koi)
Actress and filmmaker Oby Kechere, popularly known as Madam Koi Koi, died on April 27, 2026, following a prolonged illness. She became widely recognised for her role as Ms Koi Koi in the popular comedy film Aki na Ukwa. She also worked behind the scenes as a filmmaker and producer.
8. Ajara Lasisi (Aunty Ajara)
Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, died on February 5, 2026, after a prolonged illness. She was known for her comic and supporting roles in Yoruba movies. Her death was announced by filmmaker Tobi Oladele, popularly known as Tee Mony, and later confirmed by her brother.
9. Bunmi Akinnaanu-Adeoye (Omije Ojumi)
Nigerian gospel singer Bunmi Akinnaanu-Adeoye, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, died on January 12, 2026, at the age of 46. She became widely known for her emotional Yoruba gospel song, Omije Ojumi, which earned her recognition among gospel music lovers. Her death was announced by her family and attracted tributes from colleagues and fans.
10. Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji (Toluwanisings)
Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, died in the early hours of October 14, 2026. His family announced his death the following day. He was known for his energetic praise songs, including Eleda, I’m Not Alone and A Very Big God. His passing attracted tributes from fans, gospel ministers and entertainers.
Conclusion
The deaths of these Nigerian celebrities have left gaps in the entertainment industry. While their families, friends, colleagues and fans continue to mourn them, their works and contributions remain part of Nigeria’s entertainment history.
Their performances, songs and memorable moments will continue to remind audiences of the talents the country has lost.