The Nigerian film industry, widely known as Nollywood, is in mourning following the death of beloved actress Nkechi Nweje. The popular star reportedly passed away on Friday morning, March 21, 2025, after battling a prolonged illness. Nweje's passing has left a significant void in the hearts of her fans, colleagues, and loved ones.
A close source revealed that she had been struggling with an undisclosed illness, and tragically, she passed away just as she seemed to be on the road to recovery. The news of her death sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, where many of her colleagues took to their platforms to express their sorrow.
Veteran actress Rita Edochie shared her condolences on Instagram by posting a candlelight image with a somber caption. “This world is really not our home,” she wrote, encapsulating the shared sentiment of disbelief among Nweje's peers.
In a heartfelt tribute, actor Buchi Dortmund expressed 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, nor can they fully express the love I have for her. Rest in peace, Ezigbo Mrs Nkechi Nweje.” His words reverberated with the sense of loss felt throughout the Nollywood community.
Asa Ikuku, another actress, also shared her sorrow, writing, “Rest in peace, mummy Nkechi Nweje TV (Nwanyi Onitsha). You are indeed a blessing to us. But God knows best. We will miss you so much, great Nollywood actress. Rest on, legend.” Her tribute speaks to the profound affection and admiration that fans and colleagues had for Nweje.
Stanley Ontop, a producer and close friend of Nweje, confirmed the news of her death, revealing that he had known for several hours but found it difficult to process. He described Nweje as his best friend and added that she passed away following a brief illness. In a touching post, he remarked, “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood 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. She always called me on the phone advising me.”
Many other stars, including Destiny Etiko and Anita Joseph, also expressed their condolences on social media. The loss of Nweje, renowned for her emotional portrayals particularly in motherly roles, is a heavy one not only for her family and friends but also for her fans. Nweje was married to Dr. Azuibuike Nweje, and their union was blessed with six children, which included daughters Oma and Adaora, and sons Kene and Ponkeey.
Her contributions to the Nollywood film industry were characterized by her outstanding performances in films like My Brother’s Wife (2019), Ritual of Vengeance (2021), and Sorrows of Nene (2014). Just last week, Nweje made headlines with the release of her new film titled The Debt, which premiered on YouTube on March 14, 2025 – a fitting testament to her dedication to her craft.
As the news settles in, friends and fans have expressed their disbelief. One commenter, Lilian Mma Faith, reflected on Nweje's struggle, stating, “Madam Nkechi Nweje, Aka Nwanyi Onitsha, I read from her supposed friend that she has been sick for a while and just died at the verge of recovery. This is not good! No wonder she has become scarce on screen. Kai! Goodnight Nwanyi Oma Onitsha, Onwu amaghi eme!” This heavy heart speaks to the sorrow of losing someone who had become a staple in the entertainment community.
Nkechi Nweje’s legacy in Nollywood is profound, with her many performances enriching the lives of viewers and her colleagues. As the industry reels from this sudden loss, the tributes pouring in reflect not only sadness but also a celebration of her life and impact. She touched many through her roles, and her spirit will undoubtedly live on through her body of work.
In remembrance of a life lived passionately, Nollywood continues to grieve and honor one of its vibrant stars who has ascended beyond this world, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
