The reported passing of Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo to liver cancer has renewed discussions on the brutality of the disease. While Ekubo was not so lucky, several Nigerian celebrities have openly battled cancer and survived. Their stories of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery continue to inspire millions across the country. Below are nine Nigerian celebrities who battled cancer and lived to tell their powerful stories.
1. Banky W - Skin Cancer Survivor
Singer and politician Banky W disclosed in 2017 that he had undergone multiple surgeries for a rare skin cancer on his shoulder. Reports confirmed he had his third surgery in 2017, after initially battling the illness years earlier. By 2018, he shared that his tests showed he was 'in the clear,' although recovery came with lingering pain and sensitivity around the surgery area. He used his experience to encourage Nigerians not to ignore health checks and to appreciate early detection.
2. Vast of Bracket - Lymphoma Survivor
Singer Vast of the duo Bracket in 2013 battled lymphoma (blood cancer) after being diagnosed in the UK. In a recent interview, he explained that he underwent seven months of chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and even spinal injections during treatment. He recalled nearly losing his life during treatment, saying the process was more dangerous than the illness itself.
3. Tope Osoba - Breast Cancer Survivor
Veteran actress Tope Osoba, in November 2024, shared her battle with breast cancer, which she fought over several years. She explained how the illness affected her physically and financially, forcing her into long treatment periods and recovery breaks from acting. She revealed that she lost her hair and underwent intensive treatment, but later became a symbol of survival and hope for women battling similar conditions in Nigeria.
4. Wole Soyinka - Prostate Cancer Survivor
Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka disclosed that he was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer in 2013, which was confirmed during routine medical checks. He later explained that he underwent successful treatment, including advanced therapy, and recovered fully. Soyinka used his platform to urge Nigerian men to embrace regular screening, saying early detection saved his life and prevented complications.
5. Mercy Johnson - Thyroid Tumour Scare
Actress Mercy Johnson revealed that she once had a serious thyroid-related health scare that led to surgery. She explained in later interviews that doctors removed her thyroid gland and placed her on lifelong medication after concerns about cancer risk. Mercy Johnson said the experience was life-changing, especially as she had just welcomed a child at the time. She has since remained active in Nollywood while managing her health condition.
6. Charly Boy - Prostate Cancer Survivor
Entertainer Charly Boy revealed in 2023 that he underwent surgery after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. He shared hospital experiences publicly, thanking doctors and encouraging men not to ignore prostate screening.
7. Aproko Doctor - Brain Tumour Survivor
Health influencer Aproko Doctor revealed in 2022 that he was diagnosed with a brain tumour that affected his vision. He underwent surgery and successfully recovered, later returning to social media with renewed focus on health education and early detection awareness.
8. Zainab Balogun - Tumour-Related Health Scare
Actress Zainab Balogun took a break from acting after revealing she was dealing with a serious health condition involving tumour-related complications. She later returned in 2022, speaking about recovery and the emotional toll of her health journey, encouraging Nigerians to prioritise medical checks.
These stories highlight the importance of early detection, regular health screenings, and the resilience of the human spirit. Their survival serves as a beacon of hope for many facing similar battles.
