Veteran Nollywood Actor Fabian Adibe Passes Away at 81
The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran Nollywood actor Fabian Adibe, who passed away at the age of 81.
The sad news of his passing was confirmed by Seun Oloketuyi, Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON), who revealed that the respected thespian died in the early hours of Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at about 2:30 am.
Adibe, who rose to fame through his unforgettable role in the television adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s globally acclaimed novel Things Fall Apart, carved a niche for himself as one of the pioneers of Nigerian screen acting. His dignified portrayal in the production helped establish him as a household name and laid a strong foundation for his decades-long career in film and television.
Over the years, Adibe became known for his commanding presence, his calm yet powerful delivery, and his ability to embody traditional African characters with authenticity and grace. These qualities made him a favorite of both filmmakers and audiences, earning him the reputation of being one of Nollywood’s most dependable actors.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans, and cultural enthusiasts who remember him as more than just an actor. Many described him as a father figure and mentor whose contributions to the growth of Nollywood cannot be overstated. Industry insiders praised his humility, discipline, and dedication to the craft, noting that he remained committed to the promotion of African storytelling until his final days.
On social media, admirers shared clips of his past performances and heartfelt tributes, celebrating his artistry and reflecting on the golden era of Nigerian television in which he played a vital role.
Adibe’s death marks the end of an era for Nollywood, as he belonged to the class of actors who helped transition Nigeria’s entertainment industry from stage and television productions into the global phenomenon it has become today.
As his family, colleagues, and fans come to terms with the loss, his legacy continues to live on through the roles he played and the lives he touched. To many, Fabian Adibe will forever remain not only a star of Things Fall Apart, but also a cultural icon whose work bridged generations.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days, as Nollywood and the wider African creative community prepare to bid farewell to one of its most respected pioneers.