THE NIGERIAN FILM INDUSTRY has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actress Nkechi Nweje. A respected figure in Nollywood, she reportedly passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, after a brief illness.
Her passing has sparked widespread grief among colleagues, fans, and family members, with tributes pouring in from across the industry.
The Explainer gathered that Nweje, known for her outstanding portrayals of motherly figures, had been battling an undisclosed illness. A source close to the family revealed that she was on the path to recovery before her sudden demise. “She was responding to treatment,” the source said, “but things took a drastic turn.”
Nkechi Nweje was a well-known actress whose career spanned over two decades. She played pivotal roles in notable films such as My Brother’s Wife (2019), Ritual of Vengeance (2021), and Sorrows of Nene (2014). The Explainer learned that her most recent project, The Debt, premiered on YouTube on March 14, 2025, just a week before her passing. The film, which gained thousands of views within days, now stands as a tribute to her dedication to Nollywood.
Industry analysts note that Nollywood contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy, generating approximately $600 million annually, with over 2,500 movies produced each year. Nkechi Nweje played a key role in this industry, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to her characters.
The news of her passing was first confirmed by film producer Stanley Ajemba, popularly known as Stanley Ontop, who took to Instagram to express his grief. “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness,” he wrote. “Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha. Rest in peace, ma’am.”
Other Nollywood stars, including Destiny Etiko and Anita Joseph, also paid tribute to the late actress. Rita Edochie, a veteran in the industry, shared a candlelight image with a heartfelt caption: “This world is really not our home.”
Buchi Dortmund, a fellow actor, described his pain, saying, “Today, my heart is heavy with sorrow as I say goodbye to my dear sister. Words cannot capture the depth of this pain.”
The Explainer gathered that Nkechi Nweje was married to Dr. Azuibuike Nweje, and together they had six children.
0Her daughter, Adaora Nweje, shared a touching message: “Mummy was strong till the end. She never gave up. We are proud of the life she lived.”
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A close family friend, Lilian Mma Faith, also expressed her grief, saying, “Nwanyi Onitsha, you have left a void in Nollywood. We will never forget your wisdom and kindness.”
The issue of inadequate healthcare support among Nollywood actors has been a recurring concern. Emeka Rollas, National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), expressed concern over the reluctance of some actors to subscribe to the guild’s health insurance plan, which aims to provide medical assistance to its members.
In recent years, several Nollywood actors have faced serious health challenges, leading them to seek public assistance for medical treatments. For instance, veteran actor Amaechi Muonagor was hospitalized and appealed to Nigerians for support due to ongoing health issues.
Similarly, actor John Amaefule suffered a stroke and was admitted to the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri, with calls for financial assistance made to the public.
The Nigerian film industry remains one of the largest in the world, yet many actors struggle with healthcare accessibility. This has reignited conversations within the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) about implementing better health policies for its members.
Despite the sorrow surrounding her passing, Nkechi Nweje’s contributions to Nollywood remain undeniable. Fans and industry experts agree that her roles in numerous productions helped shape the industry.
