2025 was a year of tremendous achievements in Nigerian entertainment, politics and culture but it was also a year marked by sorrow and reflection as the nation mourned influential figures. These personalities shaped industries, inspired millions and left behind legacies that will continue to resonate for generations.
Here are some of the popular personalities we lost in 2025:
Big Bolaji
Nigerian gospel singer and ordained pastor Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji or simply Big B, died at the age of 50 on Easter Saturday, 19th April, 2025, following a brief illness.
Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu
A rising Nigerian news anchor with Arise TV, popularly known as Sommie. She died during an armed robbery at her home around 3:30 a.m. on September 29, 2025. Her passing shocked the media world and cut short one of its most promising young voices at just 29, leaving colleagues and fans mourning the loss of a talented broadcaster.
Anike Agbaje-Williams
A media icon and philanthropist who died peacefully on 27th February, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, at the age of 88. She was a pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting and the first face on African television when she appeared on the Western Nigerian Television station, now the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), during its test transmission and official opening on31st October, 1959. She was also the first voice heard on the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Service, Africa’s first commercial radio station, earning her the nickname “Double-First”.
Kayode Peters
Nollywood actor and producer who passed away on 28th June, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, at the age of 49. He was well-known for his work on the popular comedy series Flatmates and My Flatmates. He died after a prolonged illness, which some reports indicate involved kidney issues since a 2012 car accident.
Aunty Esther
Aunty Esther (Mensah Omolola) 27th December, 2025 – Social Media Personality and Entrepreneur. Known affectionately as Aunty Esther on X (formerly Twitter), Mensah Omolola became a household name through her engaging online presence as a personal shopper and food vendor. Her real‑life journey captured Nigerians’ hearts, especially as she battled breast cancer publicly, igniting widespread online discussions about faith, health, and community care. Despite significant public support and fundraising, she passed away after her courageous fight, and her story sparked national reflection on medical choices, belief systems, and empathy.
Allwell Ademola
Popular Nollywood actress who reportedly died on 27th December, 2025 at age 49 is said to have suffered a heart attack at her residence.
Odira Nwobu
A popular actor, content creator, and influencer, he passed away on November 24, 2025 in South Africa at the age of 43. Initial reports pointed to high blood pressure complications or cardiac arrest, but a December 2025 report indicated an autopsy revealed he was poisoned, a finding confusing to his director. Nollywood actor Odira Nwobu died while abroad, leaving fans shocked by the sudden loss of a vibrant entertainer. Odunayo Olufemi Oloto (Oloto) also passed after a brief illness, both figures remembered for their unique contributions and professionalism on set.
Nkechi Nweje
Popular Nollywood actress who died on 21st March, 2025.
Pat Ugwu
Nollywood actress, popularly known as ‘Sugar Girl,’ died at the age of 35.
Columbus Irosanga
Veteran Nollywood actor who passed away in February 2025. He was a senior lecturer in Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, he was respected not just for his impactful film roles but for his mentorship of younger talents in the industry. His performances carried authenticity and gravitas, leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian cinema.
While their departures bring sadness, their legacies continue to inspire us. As 2026 draws to a close, we honour their memories, embracing the joy they brought and the impact they made. Remembering the Stars We Lost in 2025: Celebrating Nigerian Legends and Influencers