Tom Njemanze cancer appeal moves Nigerians as veteran actor battles prostate cancer and seeks urgent financial help for life-saving surgery

Veteran Nollywood actor Tom Njemanze has made a heartfelt public appeal for financial assistance as he battles prostate cancer. The Tom Njemanze cancer appeal surfaced online on Tuesday through a video that has since gone viral, drawing emotional reactions and widespread concern across the entertainment community.

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In the video, the seasoned actor was seen lying in a hospital bed, visibly frail but hopeful. The footage was first shared on Instagram by filmmaker Stanley Ontop, who revealed that Njemanze urgently needs funds to undergo surgery.

According to Ontop, the actor is currently receiving treatment and cannot cover the medical expenses required for the next stage of care.

“Hello guys, one of our Nollywood legends is sick and needs urgent surgery,” Ontop said in the video’s caption. “Sir Tom Njamanze 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 Tom Njemanze cancer appeal has drawn attention not only because of the actor’s condition but also due to his long and respected career in the Nigerian film industry.

Njemanze is known for iconic roles in classic Nollywood titles such as Issakaba, Tokunboh, Atosa, Pounds and Dollars, Osuofia in London, Igbotic Love, and Brain Box.

His commanding presence and unique delivery earned him praise from fans and colleagues alike, and many now see this moment as an opportunity to give back.

The development comes just four months after fellow veteran actor John Amaefule issued a similar call for support while dealing with a partial stroke and cancer.

These back-to-back pleas have reignited conversation around the lack of structured healthcare support for ageing actors in Nigeria.

Reactions online have been swift and filled with sympathy. Fans, colleagues and industry insiders have taken to social media to share bank details, tag influencers, and organise contributions.

“This is heartbreaking. Tom Njemanze gave us so many great memories on screen. We must not watch him suffer in silence,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Filmmaker Stanley Ontop told followers that contributions were already coming in, but more was still needed. “We appreciate those who have given so far, but the surgery and follow-up care require much more. Please keep sharing and giving,” he said in a follow-up post.

As of press time, no official statement had been issued by the Actors Guild of Nigeria regarding support plans for Njemanze. However, fans are calling on the guild, fellow actors, and industry stakeholders to rally around the ailing star.

Speaking on a radio programme in Enugu, media personality Ada Chukwu praised the actor for his humility and resilience. “Tom Njemanze is one of those faces you never forget. He played every role with sincerity. Now it’s our turn to be sincere in our support,” she said.

The Tom Njemanze cancer appeal has once again spotlighted the struggles faced by Nollywood veterans, particularly in accessing quality healthcare. While the Nigerian film industry continues to grow, many of its pioneers face uncertain futures when medical emergencies arise.

As the campaign to raise funds continues, supporters remain hopeful that help will arrive in time. Those close to the actor have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love, urging the public to keep spreading the message.

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“Let’s not wait until we hear sad news,” said one fan. “If he gave us joy through film, let’s return the favour through action.”