The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actor, producer and director Steven Echendu, whose passing was announced on October 23, 2026, just hours after news emerged of the death of fellow actor Francis Duru.
Echendu, also known as Steve Echendu, was remembered by colleagues for his contributions to the Nigerian movie industry, particularly his association with OJs Production and his work in film production.
His death was announced by Nollywood colleague Wisdom Nwankwo, who shared a tribute on Facebook expressing grief over the loss. Nwankwo’s announcement prompted reactions from people familiar with Echendu’s work and others within the entertainment industry.
The news came at a difficult time for Nollywood, as the industry was already responding to the death of Francis Duru, another recognised figure in Nigerian film and television.
The deaths of the two actors within hours of each other intensified the sense of loss among colleagues and fans, with tributes highlighting the contributions they made to the entertainment sector.
Although reports of Echendu’s death circulated widely, an official cause of death had not been disclosed in the information reviewed. Some reports referred to an illness, but the specific medical circumstances surrounding his passing remained unclear.
Echendu had been involved in several film productions during his career. His screen credits reportedly included Fury (2019), Knockout Blessing (2018) and Infant at Heart (2024).
Through his involvement in Nollywood productions, he contributed to an industry that has grown into one of Africa’s most prominent film sectors, reaching audiences across the continent and among the African diaspora.
His colleagues’ tributes reflected the personal relationships that develop among actors, producers and other professionals who work together across different productions. Nwankwo reportedly expressed concern over losing colleagues within a short period and encouraged people to check on friends who become unusually absent from social media.
The appeal also drew attention to the importance of maintaining contact with friends and colleagues, particularly when changes in their usual communication patterns raise concerns.
Meanwhile, Francis Duru’s death had also prompted an outpouring of grief. His family announced his passing on October 23, 2026, stating that he had died following a brief illness, although further medical details were not provided in the reports reviewed.
The deaths of the two actors have renewed conversations about the loss of experienced professionals in the Nigerian entertainment industry and the impact such news has on colleagues and audiences who have followed their careers.
As tributes continue, fans and fellow industry figures are remembering Echendu for his work in film and the relationships he built throughout his time in Nollywood.
Further details about funeral arrangements and the circumstances surrounding his death were not available in the reports reviewed.
Source: Thepressradio.com
