Fabian Adibe: Veteran Nollywood Actor Reportedly Passes Away at 81
- Veteran Nollywood actor Fabian Adibe reportedly passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025
- Details of Adibe's passing have been sketchy, however, he is understood to have died at about 2:30 am
- The news of his passing has triggered sadness among social media users, with many sharing tributes
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The Nigerian film industry is mourning the loss of yet another veteran actor, Fabian Adibe. The celebrated actor reportedly passed away.
Source: Instagram
Details about the veteran actor's passing are still sketchy. However, renowned journalist Seun Oloketuyi announced the news on his Instagram page, paying tribute to Adibe's contributions to Nollywood.
According to Oloketuyi, the actor's passing occurred around 2:30 am on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
"Things Fall Apart Actor Fabian Adibie is Dead. 2:30am this morning. Details later," he captioned a photo of Adibe he shared.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DNk54u1CKFS/
Fabian Adibe's Nollywood legacy
Known for his memorable performance in the film adaptation of Chinua Achebe's acclaimed novel, Things Fall Apart, Adibe established himself as one of Nollywood's most important actors.
He started acting in the 1970s as an integral member of the Odunke Artists group, a collective of promising young performers who helped shape the foundation of Nigerian theatre and cinema. His contributions during this formative period proved instrumental in establishing the credibility and artistic standards that would define Nollywood.
Throughout his illustrious career, Adibe appeared in numerous Nollywood productions that became classics of Nigerian cinema, including Isakaba, Billionaires' Club, and Dangerous Mind.
The Nollywood actor was particularly renowned for his portrayal of calm, wise father figures on screen. His gentle demeanour and natural authority made him the perfect choice for roles requiring dignity and gravitas. These performances resonated deeply with audiences who saw in him the embodiment of traditional Nigerian values and wisdom.
Born on December 1, 1943, he was 81 years old.
Below is a photo of Fabian Adibe celebrating his 81st birthday in 2024.
Reactions to Fabian Adibe's passing
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry. Fellow actors, directors, and industry professionals have taken to social media to honour his memory and acknowledge his foundational role in building Nollywood into the global phenomenon it has become.
Happy Ndumele said:
"Chai rest in peace, sir. I always liked your roles in movies 🎥, you are always a peacemaker in a movie or a calm daddy that always understands his children.
Kolawoleolufemi said:
May his departed noble soul rest in peace
Diamond Diamond said:
"I love the man so much. May your soul rest in the bosom of the Lord, sir."
iambarristerhelen said:
May his soul rest well🕊️🕊️
Anne Ekene Nwaefulu said:
"Rest in peace, Daddy. Thanks for entertaining us, we love you, sir, but God loves you best, rest on legend."
Fortified B said:
"RIP. He used to choose his roles in movies, and he stood for uprightness and solid moral standards."
Source: Instagram
Nollywood actor Tom Njemanze passes away
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that another Nollywood actor, Tom Njemanze, had passed away after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
The news of Njemanze's passing came weeks after photos of him in the hospital were released in a move to solicit funds for his treatment.
His passing triggered sad reactions from netizens, with many blaming the Nigerian welfare system.
Source: YEN.com.gh
