The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and its sister agency, the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), have joined Nollywood practitioners and Nigerians to mourn the loss of popular actor Francis Duru, who died on Thursday after a brief illness.
In a condolence message, the NFVCB described him as “a trained thespian whose career personified the pinnacle of discipline, artistry, and professional integrity.”
“From his timeless breakout performance as Ahanna in the classic ‘Rattlesnake’ (1995) to his extensive contributions across generations of Nollywood, Duru consistently championed content that balanced high aesthetic value with profound societal morality.
“As a regulatory body committed to the growth and classification of quality films, the NFVCB recognizes Francis Duru as a thoroughbred professional who elevated the craft of acting. His strict adherence to artistic excellence on-screen and his constructive roles in industry leadership, including his service to the Actors Guild of Nigeria, helped shape the positive trajectory of Nollywood.
“His recognition as a United Nations Ambassador of Peace further highlighted his commitment to using his creative platform for the betterment of society. Nigeria has lost a brilliant cultural ambassador and a rare standard-bearer for quality production,” the Board said.
Similarly, the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) described the late actor as one who loved the art, noting that he was “a thespian with a difference” who loved sharing his career experiences as a speaker, anchor and discussant across various film industry platforms, universities and institutions, including the residency programme of the National Film Institute (NFI), Jos.
“Beyond the deep and irreparable loss that his death will have on family members, relatives and friends, we will continue to remember and reference him for his lofty contributions to the growth and development of our film industry. He was indeed a resource and screen star, but sadly, cut down by death,” the NFC said.
His death comes just weeks after legendary actor Olu Jacobs was laid to rest in Lagos, and months after Duru himself debunked viral reports claiming he was battling a life-threatening illness.
