Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actress Nkechi Winnie Angel Nweje, who passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 60. A proud daughter of Onicha Ado in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nkechi was a beloved actress, devoted Christian, and mother of six. Her death has left a deep void in the Nigerian film industry and among the many fans who adored her work.
Born on June 6, 1964, Nkechi hailed from a prominent, culturally rich family in Onitsha and embodied the grace and strength for which the Igbo matriarch is known. She was married to Dr. Azubuike Nweje, a senior health official with the Anambra State Ministry of Health. The couple had six children and were known for their strong family values and spiritual devotion.
Nkechi Nweje was best known for her breakout performance in the film “Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha”, which endeared her to audiences nationwide and earned her the affectionate nickname Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha. Her acting career, which spanned over a decade, saw her portray countless motherly and community matriarch roles that captured the essence of Igbo womanhood. A university graduate and a woman of deep faith, she was admired both on and off screen for her humility and character.
According to a family source, her death was the result of complications from a major abdominal surgery she underwent in November 2024. Though she appeared to be recovering well, her condition worsened suddenly, and she passed away after being unable to withstand the pain. The source shared: “She was healing perfectly well until yesterday when the pain became unbearable, and she gave up the ghost 💔😭😭.”
The sad news of her passing was confirmed by film producer and activist Stanley Ajemba, also known as Stanley Ontop, who took to Instagram to express his heartbreak. “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant actresses… I’m still speechless,” he wrote.
Veteran actress Rita Edochie also paid tribute, posting a candlelight photo with the poignant caption: “This world is not our home.” Fans and colleagues have since flooded social media with heartfelt messages, celebrating her legacy and the many lives she touched through her roles.
Nkechi is survived by her husband and six children, who have requested prayers and privacy as they mourn their irreplaceable loss.
Her death is not only a personal tragedy for her family but also a monumental loss to the Nigerian film industry, where she served as a beacon of grace, professionalism, and cultural pride. She leaves behind a powerful legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of actors, especially women in Nollywood.
As we say goodbye, we remember her not just as an actress, but as a mother, wife, sister, and proud Igbo woman whose presence brightened every scene she graced.
Keep resting with the Lord, Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha. This one pain me 😭💔💔
For a detailed biography of Nkechi Nweje, visit:
🔗 https://biography.igbopeople.org/biography/nkechi-nweje/
Shalom!
— IgboPeople.org News
