By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Lagos — Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Faithia Williams, has announced the death of her mother, revealing that the painful loss occurred on the eve of her 55th birthday celebration, a tragedy she only learned about after hosting a private party.
In an emotional statement shared on her official social media platforms on Monday, February 9, the actress disclosed that her mother passed away quietly just before the birthday gathering, but the family deliberately withheld the news to protect her from shock.
“Unbeknownst to me, my beloved mother died on the eve of my party and the news was cruelly kept away from me,” Williams wrote.
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The actress, who turned 55 on Thursday, February 5, explained that she chose to celebrate days later, on Sunday, unaware that her biggest supporter was already gone.
Describing her late mother as the emotional backbone of her life, Williams said the reality of the loss was still settling in.
“The reality of her passing has not totally dawned on me because she was my cheerleader, prayer warrior, best friend, and gist partner wrapped in the invaluable gift of a mother,” she stated.
The news has since sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans, colleagues, and prominent figures within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, many of whom expressed shock and sympathy over the timing and emotional weight of the loss.
Faithia Williams, a devout Muslim, said she has found comfort in her faith amid the grief.
“Whilst I have taken solace in Allah (SWT), the Williams’ family has decided to keep things very private for now,” she added.
The family, according to her statement, has opted for privacy during this difficult period, noting that burial arrangements will be communicated at a later date.
“Your love and prayers will mean a lot to me and my siblings this period. Burial details will be announced later,” Williams concluded.
Faithia Williams is widely respected in Nollywood for her decades-long contribution to the Yoruba and mainstream Nigerian film industry, earning acclaim not only for her talent but also for her grace and resilience. The loss of her mother marks a deeply personal moment for the actress, one that has resonated strongly with the public.
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As tributes continue to pour in, many admirers have praised the family’s decision to shield her from immediate grief during what was meant to be a moment of celebration, even as they pray for strength and comfort for the Williams family.
