Tinubu, Nollywood mourn veteran actor, Francis Duru

President Bola Tinubu, members of Nollywood, the Actors Guild of Nigeria, and admirers have expressed sorrow over the passing of celebrated actor and filmmaker, Francis Duru. Duru's family confirmed his death via an Instagram post on Friday, sharing gratitude for their support. The statement affirmed, "We, the family of Francis Duru, regret to announce his passing following a brief illness."

Tributes have flooded in from colleagues, industry leaders, and organizations, lauding his contribution to Nollywood and the broader African film industry. President Tinubu conveyed his condolences to Duru's family, colleagues, fans, and the Nigerian film industry in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The Directors of the Kaduna International Film Festival, Israel Audu, described Duru's passing as a personal tragedy and a severe blow to African cinema. Audu noted that Duru was more than just a festival participant; he was a genuine friend of the festival's vision and a constant supporter of its objectives. Versatile and prolific actor, Kanayo Kanayo, hailed Duru as one of Nigeria's finest performers, mourning the loss of "one of the most flexible, prolific performers Nigeria ever produced."

Other mourners include actress Kate Henshaw, who noted, "Like a flame gone out, so are our lives when it all ends," and actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie, who expressed her grief with the statement, "Too tired and speechless about this loss." The Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Abubakar Yakubu, also paid tribute to Duru, writing, "Another great thespian gone.

Rest in peace, Francis Duru!" Duru, a veteran of several decades in the Nigerian film industry, was notably recognized for his role as Ahanna in Amaka Igwe's 1995 film Rattlesnake, among numerous other productions. Born in Cameroon to parents from Imo State, Duru studied Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt before embarking on his illustrious acting career.

Beyond his acting prowess, Duru was revered as a mentor to emerging talents and was actively involved in initiatives aimed at supporting them.