Nigerian entertainment stars lost to cancer include actors and singers whose deaths sparked concern over the deadly disease
The Nigerian entertainment industry has continued to mourn a growing number of prominent actors and musicians who lost their lives to various forms of cancer, a devastating trend that has fuelled widespread conversations among fans and social media users.
The recent death of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo has once again drawn attention to the deadly disease and its impact on the country’s creative industry.
Alex Ekubo died on May 11, 2026, following complications arising from kidney cancer.
The shocking development triggered emotional reactions across the entertainment sector, with many colleagues and fans describing the loss as heartbreaking.
The growing list of Nigerian entertainment stars lost to cancer includes veteran actor Tom Njemanze, who died on July 18, 2025, at the age of 75 after battling prostate cancer.
Tom Njemanze’s death came only weeks after the respected actor publicly appealed for financial support to undergo urgent surgery, a moment that sparked sympathy and renewed debate about healthcare support for ageing entertainers.
Actress Ify Onwuemene, known for her role in Everyday People, died on May 25, 2021, after a prolonged battle with stage four endometrial cancer.
Before her death, Ify Onwuemene reportedly underwent eight chemotherapy sessions and had her womb removed in a desperate effort to survive the illness.
Popular Nollywood actress Aishat Abimbola, widely recognised as Omoge Campus, died in Canada on May 15, 2018, after battling breast cancer.
Veteran actress Doris Chima also succumbed to complications linked to breast cancer in August 2021. Emeka Rising, who served as chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in Lagos State at the time, confirmed the death. Reports indicated that Doris Chima had previously lost one breast to the disease.
Actor Karibi Fubara died in December 2021 following complications from kidney cancer.
The actor had earlier undergone a major surgery in 2020 that removed nearly 90 per cent of a kidney tumour, a courageous fight that inspired many supporters.
The music industry has also suffered painful losses.
Legendary reggae musician Majek Fashek, born Majekodunmi Fasheke, died in June 2020 after battling oesophageal cancer.
Majek Fashek remained one of Nigeria’s most influential reggae voices, celebrated for timeless hits and electrifying performances.
Veteran musician and activist Sonny Okosuns died from colon cancer on May 24, 2008, in Washington.
The internationally recognised singer was widely respected for using music as a powerful tool for social and political advocacy.
Gospel singer Aduke Gold died on August 11, 2024, after battling cervical cancer.
The singer passed away at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, leaving many gospel music followers in mourning.
Music icon Olanrewaju Fasasi, professionally known as Sound Sultan, died in the United States on July 11, 2021, at the age of 44.
Sound Sultan had battled a rare blood cancer known as Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.
The repeated loss of entertainers to cancer has continued to generate concern among Nigerians, with many calling for improved awareness, early diagnosis, accessible treatment and stronger healthcare support for public figures and ordinary citizens alike.
