LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigeria’s film industry is in mourning following the death of veteran actress Cecilia Oby Kechere, a respected performer known for her memorable roles alongside Aki and PawPaw duo.
Her death was announced by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) who confirmed that the actress died after battling a long unnamed illness.
The news was shared on the guild’s official social media pages, where members and fans expressed sadness over the loss.
According to the guild, Kechere died on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Before her death, she served as Vice Chairman of the Abuja chapter, playing an active role in supporting actors in the region.
In a statement signed by the AGN National President, Uche Agbo, the organization described her death as a painful loss to the Nollywood film industry.
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“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Madam Cecilia Oby Kechere, Vice Chairman of the DGN Abuja Chapter. We were informed yesterday that she passed on Monday, 27th April 2026, after a prolonged illness,” the statement said.
Kechere built a strong reputation in Nollywood, especially for her roles alongside popular comic actors Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze, aka Aki and PawPaw.
She often played their mother in films, earning admiration from fans across the country. One of her most notable appearances was in the movie Aki na Ukwa, where she played the character Ms Koi Koi.
Kechere was also a director and a trained Theatre Arts graduate from the University of Ibadan.
The guild highlighted her professionalism and dedication, noting her impact on the growth of Nollywood and unity within the Abuja chapter.
“Madam Cecilia was a graduate of Theatre Arts University of Ibadan, a committed professional and a valued member of our guild. Her contributions to the growth and unity of the DGN, particularly within the Abuja Chapter, will never be forgotten,” the statement added.
The AGN extended condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, especially members of the Abuja branch where she served diligently.
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“On behalf of the National Executive Council and the entire DGN family, I extend my deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all members of the Abuja Chapter in this difficult time. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace,” Agbo said.
Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with condolences and tributes, sharing and reposting her pictures, alongside snippets from her most memorable films.
They note that her passing leaves a gap in Nollywood where she spent decades shaping stories on screen and mentoring others behind the scenes.
