President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the family, colleagues and fans of veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru, who has died at the age of 57.
Tinubu described Duru’s death as a painful loss to the Nigerian film industry and the country’s creative community.
Recall that Duru died at the age of 57 following a brief illness.
His family announced his death on his official Instagram page in the early hours of Friday.
The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The statement read, “President Tinubu acknowledges the important role veteran actors like Duru played in the growth and development of Nigeria’s film industry, particularly in shaping its artistic identity, nurturing emerging talent, and projecting Nigerian stories, culture, and values to audiences at home and abroad.
He said the legacies of artists who dedicate their lives to entertaining, educating and inspiring society endure beyond their lifetime.
He added that Duru’s contributions would remain part of Nollywood’s history and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
“The President notes that the legacies of artists who devote their lives to entertaining, educating, and inspiring society endure long after their departure.
He affirms that Duru’s contributions to Nollywood will remain part of the industry’s rich history and cultural heritage.”
Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of the actor’s soul and asked God to comfort his family, friends, colleagues and admirers.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of the contributions of the arts and entertainment industry to national development, cultural preservation and Nigeria’s international image.
It added, “President Tinubu prays for the peaceful repose of the departed actor’s soul and asks God to grant his family, friends, colleagues, and admirers the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
“He assures the Nigerian creative community that his administration recognises the invaluable contributions of the arts and entertainment industry to national development, cultural preservation, and the country’s global image.”