- Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje passed away at 60 after a brief illness.
- Nweje reportedly died from complications following a stomach surgery she had in November 2024
- Her death was confirmed by producer Stanley Ajemba, who described her as a “vibrant actress and best friend”
The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje.
She passed away at the age of 60 after a brief illness. Her death was confirmed on Saturday, March 22, by Nollywood producer Stanley Ajemba, popularly known as Stanley Ontop, who expressed deep sorrow over her passing.
Taking to Instagram, Stanley shared an emotional tribute, revealing that her death felt like a dream.
“Nollywood is in tears as we lost one of our vibrant actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness. Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha, rest in peace ma’am. My best friend, she always called me on the phone, advising me. The last time we spoke was during the Queenth saga, and she said, ‘Ontop, stop.’ I’m still speechless,” he wrote.
Tributes pour in
Nweje’s death has left a void in Nollywood, with colleagues and fans paying heartfelt tributes.
Nollywood actor Asa Ikuku mourned her on Instagram, writing:
“Rest in peace, mummy Nkechi Nweje TV (Nwanyi Onisha). You are indeed a blessing to us. But God knows the best. We will miss you so much, great Nollywood actress. Rest on, legend.”
Veteran actress Rita Edochie also shared a sombre tribute, posting an image of candlelight against a dark background with the caption:
“This world is really not our home.”
7 things to know about actress Nkechi
1. Actress Nkechi Nweje was born on June 5, 1968, in Onicha Ado, Anambra State, Nigeria, where she was raised with strong cultural and family values.
2. She had a thriving career in Nollywood, appearing in over 100 movies, mostly playing motherly and strong female roles.
3. The movie ‘Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha’ was her breakthrough film, making her a household name in Nigerian cinema.
4. She was married to Dr. Azuibuike Nweje, and was a devoted mother
5, She gave birth to six daughters, including a set of twins.
6. In November 2024, she underwent stomach surgery but later suffered complications that led to her passing in March 2025.
7. Nkechi Nweje died on March 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and deep connections in Nollywood.
Veteran Nollywood actor Columbus Irosanga is dead
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that renowned Nollywood actor and academic Columbus Irosanga, known for his portrayals of villain characters, had passed away.
Columbus’ death comes barely 24 hours after Nollywood actress Pat Ugwu was confirmed dead on February 5, 2025. It also comes weeks after the announcement of the death of veteran actor Asa Koko.