The Nigerian entertainment industry suffered significant and heartbreaking losses in 2025, spanning Nollywood, gospel music, comedy, and journalism.
These deaths, which happened at various points throughout the year, left fans, colleagues, and industry players grieving influential figures who made lasting impacts on film, music, comedy, and the media industry.
Kayode Peters
Veteran Nigerian filmmaker, actor and director, known for contributions to TV and film, died in Canada in June 2025.
Patience “Pat” Ugwu
Nollywood actress and fitness coach, passed away at 35 on February 5, 2025.
Columbus Irosanga
Nollywood actor and theatre arts lecturer, died on February 6, 2025.
Nkechi Nweje
Character actress famed for motherly roles in films, died in March 2025.
Olusegun Akinremi (Chief Kanran)
Veteran Yoruba film actor, passed away in August 2025.
Bolaji Olanrewaju, Big Bolaji
Gospel singer and pastor Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, died on April 19. He was 50.
His family confirmed that he died after a brief illness.
He was widely respected in the gospel music and church community.
Fibian Adibe
Veteran Nollywood actor known for roles in classics like Things Fall Apart, died in August 2025.
Tom Njemanze
Veteran Nollywood actor who battled prostate cancer, died in July 2025.
Monalisa Stephen
Model and actress known for body‑positive advocacy, died in May 2025.
Allwell Ademola
Nollywood actress and producer, Allwell Ademola, died on December 27, 2025.
