The year 2025 has been marked by significant events across Nigeria, from politics to culture, but it has also witnessed the loss of several prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
Fans and followers have mourned the passing of Nollywood actors, musicians, media personalities, and other notable figures whose contributions left lasting impressions.
10 Nigerian celebrities who died this year:
- Asa Koko
Veteran Nollywood actor Asa Koko passed away on January 30, 2025, after battling an illness for more than two years. Koko, who lived in Mushin, Lagos, also ran a canteen named after himself. His death was confirmed by fellow actor Kunle Afod on Instagram. - Pat Ugwu
Nollywood actress Patience “Pat” Ugwu, popularly known as Sugar Girl, died at 35. She was known for films like Lack of Money (2018), Port-Harcourt Lady (2019), and Twist of Fate (2020). Ugwu was also an online fitness coach, beauty business owner, and permanent makeup trainer. - Columbus Irosaga
Veteran actor Columbus Irosaga, known for his native doctor roles, died on February 6, 2025. Hailing from Okrika, Rivers State, Irosaga was also a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt and featured in films such as Issakaba (2003) and 7 Kilometres (2015). - Anike Agbaje-Williams
Media icon and philanthropist Anike Agbaje-Williams passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at 88. She was the first face on African television during the Western Nigerian Television station’s opening and the first voice heard on the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service, earning her the nickname “Double-First.” - Nkechi Nweje
Popular Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje died on March 21, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning. - Bolaji Olanrewaju (Big Bolaji)
Gospel singer and ordained pastor Bolaji Olanrewaju, known as Big Bolaji, passed away on April 19, 2025, at 50, following a brief illness. He was celebrated for his contributions to both the church and the music industry. - Kayode Peters
Renowned film and stage producer Kayode Peters died on June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness. He was admired for his work in theatre and film, as well as his generosity and warmth. - Olusegun Akinremi (Chief Kanran)
Veteran actor Olusegun Akinremi, popularly called Chief Kanran, passed away on August 15, 2025. He was a major figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his distinctive style, humour, and compelling performances. - Sanku
Comedian and skit maker Adetola Samad, popularly known as Sanku, died in a car accident along Ogbomoso Road, Oyo State, on September 1, 2025. The crash also injured several passengers. - Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu
Rising news anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, known as Sommie, was killed during an armed robbery at her home on September 29, 2025. At just 29, her death shocked the media industry and cut short a promising career.
The passing of these figures has left a void in Nigeria’s entertainment and media landscape, with their legacies continuing to influence fans, colleagues, and future generations.