Veteran Nigerian actor Tom Njemanze, widely celebrated for his iconic roles in classic Nollywood films, has made a heartfelt appeal to the public for financial support as he battles prostate cancer. The respected actor, who is currently hospitalized, is in urgent need of funds to undergo life-saving surgery.
The appeal was made public through a viral video shared across social media platforms on Tuesday, drawing an emotional response from fans and colleagues alike. In the video, the ailing actor appeared visibly weak but hopeful, expressing gratitude to those who have shown concern and asking for help from kind-hearted Nigerians.
Nollywood Community Raises Alarm
The distressing news was first amplified by filmmaker Stanley Ontop, who took to his Instagram page to share the video and update the public about Njemanze’s health condition. According to Stanley, the actor was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer and needs financial support to cover his medical expenses, including urgent surgery.
“Hello guys, one of our Nollywood legends is sick and needs urgent surgery,” Stanley wrote in the post.
“Sir Tom Njemanze has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and he needs your support to undergo surgery. Nothing is too small, fams. Help our legend live again.”
The filmmaker also included details for donations and urged fans to share the message widely.
A Star of Nollywood’s Golden Era
Tom Njemanze is a familiar face to many Nigerians who grew up watching Nollywood movies in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for his rich voice, commanding screen presence, and versatile acting style, Njemanze has starred in several hit films such as Issakaba, Tokunboh, Atosa, Pounds and Dollars, Osuofia in London, Igbotic Love, and Brain Box.
He was especially known for taking on roles that portrayed wise elders, kings, or stern authority figures. His performances earned him a place among the respected veterans of the Nigerian movie industry.
“Tom Njemanze was one of the actors who helped shape Nollywood’s early years,” said entertainment analyst Chijioke Nwosu. “It’s heartbreaking to see someone who gave so much joy now crying out for help just to stay alive.”
Fans and Colleagues React
The actor’s public cry for help has sparked a wave of emotional reactions across the Nigerian entertainment industry and beyond. On social media, several fans and fellow actors have expressed shock and sadness over his condition while calling on the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and government agencies to intervene.
Prominent actress and humanitarian Rita Edochie took to Instagram to post:
“This is painful. We cannot keep losing our legends this way. Let’s do what we can to support Uncle Tom. Every little amount counts. He deserves to live.”
Another actor, Uche Elendu, also commented:
“Our legends shouldn’t be left to suffer in silence. Nollywood must find a better way to care for its own.”
A Wider Health Crisis in Nollywood?
Tom Njemanze’s plight comes barely four months after another veteran actor, John Amaefule, similarly reached out for public assistance. Amaefule, who is battling partial stroke and cancer, also made headlines earlier this year when he revealed he was struggling to afford his medical treatment.
These back-to-back cases have reignited the conversation about the need for a structured welfare system for aging Nollywood actors—many of whom do not have access to pensions, health insurance, or retirement benefits.
Entertainment lawyer Ngozi Ahanotu commented on the growing crisis:
“Nollywood has come a long way in terms of global recognition, but the industry still lacks basic structures for health care, retirement, and emergencies. The time has come to set up a proper support system for veterans.”
AGN Yet to Make Official Statement
As of the time of this report, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) is yet to release an official statement regarding Tom Njemanze’s condition or what support it may be offering.
In previous instances, the AGN has facilitated hospital visits and fundraising campaigns for ailing actors, but critics argue that more sustainable systems need to be put in place to protect the pioneers of the industry.
Fans have called on AGN President Emeka Rollas to urgently intervene and launch an official campaign to assist Njemanze.
The Urgency of the Moment
According to sources close to the family, Tom Njemanze’s health is deteriorating quickly, and time is of the essence. He is currently being managed in a private medical facility, but the surgery needed is both urgent and expensive.
Efforts are now underway to set up a verified GoFundMe page and create a bank account specifically for donations to cover his treatment and aftercare.
Supporters and well-wishers are being encouraged to donate through verified channels and to help spread the message across social media to reach Nigerians at home and abroad.
How to Help
For those who wish to support Tom Njemanze, Stanley Ontop has provided temporary donation details via his Instagram account @StanleyOntopOfficial, and further updates are expected to be released in the coming days.
Fans are also encouraged to share the video and donate through any trusted fundraising efforts coordinated by the actor’s family or verified industry insiders.
A Final Word from the Legend
In his own words, Njemanze expressed humility and gratitude for the outpouring of support. In the now-viral video, he said:
“I have always loved what I do, and I gave my best to Nollywood. But right now, I need your help. Please don’t let me fight this alone.”
His message is a sobering reminder of the fragile state of many African entertainers who once lit up the screens but now face serious health challenges without adequate support.
Conclusion
Tom Njemanze’s situation has once again spotlighted the urgent need for reform in Nollywood’s welfare system. As a beloved actor who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s film industry, he now deserves the same love and support from the public.
While financial aid may offer immediate relief, it is clear that long-term solutions are needed to protect the stars who helped build Nollywood into a global brand. For now, fans, colleagues, and kind-hearted Nigerians are being called upon to rise and help one of their own in his time of need.
