Tinubu Mourns Veteran Nollywood Actor Francis Duru At 57

President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of veteran Nollywood actor Richard Francis Duru, who died at the age of 57.

Tinubu extended his condolences to the actor’s family, colleagues, fans and the Nigerian film industry in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday, October 23.

The President described Duru’s death as a painful loss to Nollywood and Nigeria’s creative community, acknowledging the actor’s contributions to the growth and development of the country’s film industry.

The statement reads in part: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Francis Duru, extending his heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, fans and the Nigerian film industry.”

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Tinubu said veteran actors such as Duru played important roles in shaping Nollywood’s artistic identity, nurturing emerging talent and projecting Nigerian stories, culture and values to audiences at home and abroad.

He noted that the contributions of artists who dedicate their lives to entertaining, educating and inspiring society would continue to be remembered long after their deaths.

The statement reads in part: “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 grant his family, friends, colleagues and admirers the strength to bear the loss.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s recognition of the contributions of the arts and entertainment industry to national development, cultural preservation and Nigeria’s global image.