The Africa Women Conference (AWC) has mourned the passing of veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru, describing him as a cherished member of its conference family whose contributions over the years have become part of its shared history.
The conference, in a statement issued yesterday, noted that Duru’s death was particularly painful as it prepares for its 10th Anniversary in Accra, Ghana.
The statement, signed by the convener of the conference, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, explained that the upcoming anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on those who had helped shape the organisation’s journey, adding that Duru occupied a treasured place in its history.
“Francis was a cherished member of the AWC family. His longstanding participation and contributions became part of our shared journey, and we will remember with gratitude the time, talent and dedication he brought to the conference.
“As we prepare for our 10th Anniversary in Accra, Ghana, his passing is especially painful. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the people who have helped shape our story. And Francis holds a treasured place in that history. His presence will be deeply missed,” it stated.
The conference also paid tribute to Duru’s contributions to the creative industry, noting that his legacy would endure through his work and the lives he touched.
“We honour his contributions to the creative industry and the memories he leaves within our conference community. His legacy will live on through his work and the lives he touched,” the statement noted.
Extending its condolences to the actor’s wife, children, extended family, friends and colleagues, the AWC prayed for strength and comfort for them during the period of mourning.
“On behalf of the leadership, partners and entire AWC family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, friends and colleagues. We pray that God comforts them, strengthens them and grants them peace through this difficult time,” she stated.
Francis Duru was one of Nollywood’s familiar faces, with a screen career spanning more than three decades. He began his acting career in 1989 with Missing Mark, but gained wider recognition in 1995 for his portrayal of young Ahanna in Rattlesnake, the acclaimed film directed by the late filmmaker, Amaka Igwe.
The film, which became one of the notable productions of the early Nigerian home-video era, helped establish Duru’s place in the industry and introduced him to a wider audience.
Over the years, he featured in numerous productions, including Blood Money, Home in Exile, Stigma, The Good Husband, Mboputa and Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons, among several other movies, which earned him awards and recognitions.
Beyond acting, Duru contributed to the industry’s professional development. He served as an interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in 2010 and received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award in 2007 in recognition of his positive influence on young people.
His death marks the loss of an actor whose career connected different eras of Nollywood, from its early home-video productions to more recent film releases.
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