Chijioke Nwokafor is dead. The Nollywood actor, known as Cjay, died on Wednesday. His colleague, actress Nkechi Blessing, broke the news on Instagram. She shared videos of herself with the late actor. She did not reveal the cause of death.
Cjay began his career in 2021. He appeared in films such as “Larry Cold,” “Mum Overnight,” “A Day to My Wedding” and “The Lies She Tell.” The Anambra-born actor was 25. His death follows a pattern of young Nollywood talents dying suddenly. In 2024, two actors died within weeks. In 2025, another passed away after a brief illness. The industry lacks a formal welfare structure. Actors work freelance. Health insurance is rare. Many die without medical support.
Blessing cancelled the release of her movie, “Egusi Ogbono,” to honour him. The late actor featured in the film. She initially scheduled the release for 5 pm on Wednesday. She withdrew it after a hospital confirmed Cjay’s death. “Omo we had plans. I spoke to you at 8 am today and a few hours later you are no more with us,” she wrote. “Omo please return if possible because I refuse to type otherwise and this is too much for me to handle.”
Cjay’s family and colleagues have not disclosed funeral arrangements. Two Instagram posts he shared on 23 and 12 September have drawn renewed attention. In one, he wrote: “No pressure, lifestyle cost na you no know.” In another: “Life’s too short to be unhappy, live every minute like it’s your last. Live, love, laugh.”
Winners: No winners. The industry loses a young talent. Losers: Cjay, who died at 25. His family and friends. Nkechi Blessing, who loses a colleague and delays her film. Nollywood, which loses another young actor. Fans who followed his career.
Bottom Line: Cjay died at 25. He had plans. He spoke to his colleague hours before. He is gone. Nollywood keeps losing young talents. The industry needs to care for its own while they are alive, not just mourn them after.