Entertainment
Remembering Legends: Nollywood, Gospel, and Media Icons Who Died In 2025
The Nigerian entertainment and media industry experienced a year of profound loss in 2025, bidding farewell to several legends whose talents left lasting impressions on film, music, comedy, and journalism.
Fans, colleagues, and stakeholders have been reflecting on the contributions and legacies of these icons.
Asa Koko
Veteran Yoruba actor Asa Koko passed away on January 30, 2025, after battling illness for over two years.
SEE ALSO: ‘I Almost Died’– Funke Akindele Breaks Silence On Personal Struggles
Filmmaker Kunle Afod confirmed his death on Instagram, describing him as a key figure in Yoruba cinema whose distinctive acting style earned him recognition over a decade-long career.
Pat Ugwu (Sugar Girl)
Nollywood actress Patience Ugwu, popularly known as Sugar Girl, died on February 5 at the age of 35.
Known for films like Lack of Money and Port Harcourt Lady, she also ran a fitness and beauty business. Actor Emeka Okoye expressed his shock on Instagram, calling her death “frightening and unusual.”
Columbus Irosanga
Veteran actor Columbus Irosanga, famous for his native doctor roles in Nollywood films, passed on February 6, 2025.
He also served as a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, contributing decades of experience to film and television.
Anike Agbaje Williams
Broadcast pioneer Anike Agbaje Williams died on February 27 at 88 years old in Ibadan, Oyo State.
She was the first face on African television in 1959 and the first voice on the continent’s inaugural commercial radio station, leaving an enduring mark on African broadcasting.
Nkechi Nweje
Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje passed away on March 21 after a brief illness. Known for her emotional roles and strong screen presence, her passing prompted widespread grief across social media.
Bolaji Olanrewaju (Big Bolaji)
Gospel singer and pastor Big Bolaji died on April 19 at the age of 50 after a short illness. Widely respected in the gospel music and church communities, his music inspired many across Nigeria.
Kayode Peters
Film and theatre producer Kayode Peters passed away on June 28 in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness. Colleagues remembered him as a dedicated mentor and creative force in the industry.
Olusegun Akinremi (Chief Kanran)
Veteran Yoruba actor Chief Kanran died in August 2025, leaving behind a legacy of humour and memorable performances in stage and film productions.
Adetola Samad (Sanku)
Comedian and skit maker Sanku died on September 1 in a car accident along Ogbomoso Road, Oyo State, which also injured several passengers.
Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu
Broadcast journalist at Arise TV, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, was tragically killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence on September 29, aged 29.
Dan Agbese
Veteran journalist and columnist Dan Agbese, one of Nigeria’s most influential media figures, passed away at 81 in November 2025, leaving a legacy of integrity and mentorship.
Allwell Ademola
Nollywood actress and producer Allwell Ademola died on December 27, 2025, at the age of 43.
Hours before her death, she posted a heartfelt video on Instagram, praying for strength to see through the year.
Her sudden passing left fans and colleagues in shock.
The year 2025 will be remembered not only for the creative milestones achieved in Nigeria’s entertainment and media industry but also for the immense talent lost.
These legends may be gone, but their contributions, memories, and legacies will continue to inspire future generations.
Entertainment
UK Says ‘No Entry’ to Kanye West Ahead of Big Comeback Show
The United Kingdom government has denied entry to controversial American rapper Kanye West, blocking his planned return to the European stage ahead of a highly anticipated comeback performance.
According to reports, the artist recently applied for permission to travel to the UK, where he was scheduled to headline the popular Wireless Festival in July.
SEE ALSO:Adidas, Kanye West Reach Settlement, Ending Legal Dispute
However, authorities turned down the request, citing concerns that his presence would not be in the interest of public good.
The decision is believed to be linked to widespread backlash over West’s past antisemitic remarks, which have sparked global criticism and strained his professional relationships in recent years.
The UK government’s move reflects a growing trend of holding high-profile figures accountable for statements considered harmful or divisive.
West was billed to perform across all three nights of the festival, set to take place at Finsbury Park in London, as part of what many fans saw as a major comeback tour.
His absence now leaves organizers scrambling to adjust the lineup for one of the summer’s biggest music events.
While officials have not provided further details beyond the decision, the development has stirred reactions across the entertainment industry, with fans and critics divided over the government’s stance.
As anticipation builds toward the festival, attention now shifts to how organizers will fill the void left by one of music’s most polarizing figures.
Entertainment
‘Cancer Is Not a Joke, Show Proof’ – VDM Calls Out Blessing CEO
Nigerian entertainer Martin’s Ortse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM) has expressed skepticism over influencer Blessing CEO’s claims that she is battling breast cancer and seeking financial support for urgent surgery.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, VDM cautioned about the sensitive nature of cancer and the need for transparency before public appeals.
“I just hope what Blessing CEO is saying is true because cancer is a very sensitive matter globally. Cancer is not something that someone should joke with; it has claimed the lives of many people. A friend of mine lost his mother from cancer,” he wrote.
SEE ALSO: Blessing CEO Battles Breast Cancer, Appeals to Fans for Urgent Surgery Support
VDM questioned the authenticity of Blessing CEO’s claims, pointing out the absence of hospital documentation.
“I’m not convinced enough that Blessing CEO is telling the truth. Why? Because you did not post any proof from the hospital that diagnosed you. You did not provide the hospital or a doctor’s report.
“You said a lot of resources have gone into your health, yet you did not provide receipts for people to see. Instead, you came online appealing emotionally, saying this is the time for people to show you love,” he added.
Recall that Blessing CEO had shared in a video on Instagram that she was diagnosed with breast cancer and urgently needs surgery, including a possible amputation, to halt the progression of the illness.
She revealed that what initially seemed like a harmless lump in her right breast last year was later confirmed as cancer, and the illness has now spread to her left breast.
“I have not been able to work, and my resources have been exhausted. That is why I am appealing for support. If my words have ever had a positive impact on your life, and you are a fan, this is the time to show it. Nothing is too small. I just want to be well,” she said.
Entertainment
Blessing CEO Battles Breast Cancer, Appeals to Fans for Urgent Surgery Support
Nigerian influencer Blessing CEO has revealed that she is battling breast cancer and is seeking urgent financial support to undergo life-saving surgery.
In a video shared on Instagram, Blessing, who appeared bald, explained that she had exhausted her personal resources on treatment and felt “powerless,” prompting her to go public.
ALSO READ: I Make $40,000 Montly With Content Creation Says Blessing CEO
“I have been diagnosed with breast cancer. At this point, I urgently need surgery, including a possible amputation, to stop the spread and determine how far the tumour has gone, and whether one or both breasts will be affected,” she said.
Born Blessing Okoro Nkiruka, Blessing revealed that what initially seemed like a harmless lump in her right breast last year was later confirmed as cancer after further tests.
She disclosed that the illness has now spread to her left breast, making surgical intervention critical.
“It started last year as a lump, and I went to the hospital. Weeks after the tests, I was told it was not cancerous, so I decided not to remove it at the time because I had a lot going on.
“But when I was ready to have it removed, another test was carried out, and it was discovered that the lump was cancerous and had spread to the left breast. We are now considering an amputation,” she explained.
Blessing made a heartfelt appeal to her fans: “If my words have ever had a positive impact on your life, and you are a fan, this is the time to show it. Nothing is too small. I just want to be well.”
The influencer is urging anyone willing to offer support to contribute toward her medical expenses as she prepares for potentially life-saving surgery.
















