A high-powered delegation of Nollywood filmmakers, guild executives, and creative industry stakeholders gathered at the Gwarinpa residence of the late veteran actor Francis Duru to pay an official condolence visit and extend their heartfelt support to his family.
The veteran actor passed away at the age of 57 on October 23, 2026, following a brief illness. News of his death was officially confirmed to filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi through updates posted on the late actor's official Twitter and Instagram accounts, and subsequently corroborated by the Actors Guild of Nigeria.
The condolence delegation was led by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Alh.Abubakar Yakubu. The industry representatives met with the late actor's widow, Mrs. Adokiye Duru, and their children to offer prayers, solidarity, and formal condolences on behalf of the entire Nigerian motion picture community.
The visiting delegation comprised several prominent industry leaders and pioneers, including the founder of the Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF), Mr. Fidelis Duker, alongside AIFF Festival Director Mrs. Temitope Duker. Also present were former President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Bond Emeruwa, and current DGN Abuja Chapter Chairman, Holy Steve.
Representing regional guild leadership and veteran talent, the contingent further included the AGN Abuja Chapter Mayor, Salma Aminu, the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) Abuja Chairman, Desmond Utomwen, and veteran actor Benedict Johnson, among other key stakeholders.
During the visit, industry leaders praised Duru's landmark contributions to Nollywood, highlighting his decades of discipline, leadership, and remarkable screen portrayals. The delegates assured Mrs. Duru and the family of the creative community’s unalloyed backing as preparations for his final rites get underway.
