The year 2025 was marked by deep national grief as Nigeria lost several influential figures across politics, traditional institutions, sports, media, and entertainment. These individuals shaped public life, culture, and national identity in different ways, leaving behind legacies that continue to spark conversation and reflection.
This article documents some of the most popular Nigerians who died in 2025, highlighting their contributions and why their passing resonated nationwide.
Political Leaders and Public Figures
Muhammadu Buhari
Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, died in July 2025 at the age of 82. He previously served as Nigeria’s military head of state in the 1980s and later as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023. His leadership was defined by a strong anti-corruption stance and a focus on security, though his tenure also attracted criticism over economic hardship and social challenges.
Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga
Deputy Chief Whip of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Adewunmi Onanuga, popularly known as Ijaya, died on January 15 after a brief illness. She represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency and was widely regarded for her grassroots political engagement.
Ibrahim Musa
Former Senator representing Niger North Senatorial District, Ibrahim Musa, passed away in August 2025 in Abuja following a short illness. A lawyer by training, he was remembered for his legislative work and advocacy for his constituency.
Doyin Okupe
Veteran political strategist and former presidential aide, Doyin Okupe, died in March 2025 at the age of 72. He served as a senior spokesperson to former President Goodluck Jonathan and remained an outspoken commentator on national affairs.
Traditional and Diplomatic Leaders
Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona
The Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, died in July 2025 at the age of 95. One of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs, he was respected for his advocacy for education, cultural preservation, and principled leadership.
Edwin Kiagbodo Clark
Elder statesman and Ijaw leader Edwin Clark died in February 2025 at the age of 98. A former Federal Commissioner for Information, he was a strong voice for minority rights and Niger Delta development for decades.
Arthur Mbanefo
Former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Arthur Mbanefo, passed away in December 2025 at age 95. His diplomatic career elevated Nigeria’s voice in global development discussions, including his role as Chairman of the Group of 77.
Sports Figures
Moses Effiong
Former Super Eagles goalkeeper and member of Nigeria’s historic 1980 AFCON-winning squad, Moses Effiong, died in January 2025 after a long illness. He remained a respected figure in Nigerian football history.
Razak Omotoyossi
Nigerian-born Beninese football star Razak Omotoyossi died in August 2025 at the age of 39. He was celebrated for his prolific goal-scoring career across African and European leagues.
Oluwasegun Olanrewaju
Professional boxer Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, known as “Success,” died in March 2025 after collapsing during a bout in Ghana. His death reignited concerns about safety standards in combat sports across Africa.
Media, Entertainment, and Cultural Icons
Asa Koko
Veteran Nollywood actor Asa Koko died in January 2025 after a prolonged illness. He was a respected figure in Yoruba cinema, known for his depth and authenticity on screen.
Patience Ugwu
Actress Patience Ugwu, popularly known as “Sugar Girl,” passed away in February 2025 at the age of 35. She gained recognition for her roles in Nollywood films and her work as a fitness entrepreneur.
Columbus Irosanga
Veteran actor and academic Columbus Irosanga died in February 2025. Widely known for his iconic portrayals of traditional roles in Nollywood, he was also a senior lecturer in theatre arts.
Anike Agbaje-Williams
Broadcasting pioneer Anike Agbaje-Williams, Nigeria’s first television presenter, died in February 2025 at age 88. She played a foundational role in shaping Nigerian broadcast media.
Nkechi Nweje
Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje died in March 2025 following complications from surgery. Her death was widely mourned across the film industry.
Bolaji Olanrewaju (Big Bolaji)
Gospel singer and pastor Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, passed away in April 2025 after a brief illness. He was celebrated for his uplifting music and ministry.
Kayode Peters
Film producer and director Kayode Peters died in June 2025 after battling a long illness. His work contributed significantly to contemporary Nigerian storytelling.
Olusegun Akinremi (Chief Kanran)
Beloved Yoruba actor Olusegun Akinremi, known as Chief Kanran, died in August 2025. He was famous for his humour and commanding screen presence.
Adetola Samad (Sanku)
Comedian and content creator Adetola Samad, popularly known as Sanku, died in September 2025 following a car accident in Oyo State.
Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu
ARISE TV news anchor Somtochukwu Maduagwu, also known as Sommie, died in September 2025 during an armed robbery incident at her Abuja residence. Her death sparked nationwide debate about security.
Allwell Ademola
Actress and producer Allwell Ademola died in December 2025 at the age of 49 after suffering a heart attack. Her passing came just days before the end of the year.
Anda Damisa (LazyWrita)
Poet and social media influencer Anda Damisa, known as LazyWrita, died in December 2025. His passing renewed national conversations about mental health and emotional wellbeing.
