Veteran entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as CharlyBoy, has called on Nigerians to rally financial support for ailing Nollywood actor, Tom Njemanze, who is currently battling prostate cancer.
CharlyBoy made the appeal during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja. He confirmed that Njemanze is undergoing treatment at a medical facility and requires urgent surgery estimated to cost several millions of naira.
“Our Nollywood icon, Tom Njemanze the legendary actor from Issakaba and Osuofia in London is lying on a hospital bed, fighting for his life,” CharlyBoy said. “Prostate complications are draining him, and he urgently needs surgery that costs millions. How many more legends must we lose before we start showing up for our own?”
He continued, “This isn’t just about Tom. It’s about how we value the people who gave us laughter, joy, and timeless memories. These men who once lit up our screens are now left to suffer in silence when the curtain falls. But not this time—not on our watch.
“I, Area Fada, along with the CharlyBoy Foundation, am calling on well-meaning Nigerians, fans, and colleagues—anyone who still believes in compassion to rise for Tom. Let’s not wait for RIP hashtags. Let’s save him while we still can. Donate whatever you can nothing is too small.”
Njemanze had earlier appealed for assistance in a viral video, revealing his struggle with prostate cancer and pleading with Nigerians for help to fund his surgery.
In addition to the fundraising appeal, CharlyBoy also revealed that his foundation has launched a nationwide campaignon prostate cancer awareness and screening. Drawing from his personal experience as a survivor, he said the initiative aims to encourage men to undergo regular checks and break the silence around prostate health.
“Too many men are dying in silence because they don’t talk about prostate issues,” CharlyBoy said. “That’s why the CharlyBoy Foundation is leading this campaign not just for awareness, but to save lives through early detection and treatment.”
The campaign, according to him, also focuses on broader men’s health issues including mental wellness and diabetes, urging Nigerian men to take their health seriously.
