ABUJA –Renowned entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as CharlyBoy, has issued an emotional plea to Nigerians for urgent financial support to save veteran Nollywood actor Tom Njemanze, who is currently battling prostate cancer.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja, CharlyBoy confirmed that Njemanze has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is in critical need of surgery, which will cost several million naira.

“Our Nollywood icon Tom Njemanze, the legendary actor you watched in Issakaba and Osuofia in London, is in a hospital bed fighting for his life,” CharlyBoy said. “Prostate complications are draining him, and he needs urgent surgery that costs millions.”

Njemanze’s appeal for help first surfaced in a viral video, in which he disclosed his condition and asked for public support to finance his treatment. His plea has since drawn widespread sympathy from colleagues and fans.

CharlyBoy, a prostate cancer survivor himself, used the opportunity to challenge the recurring pattern of neglect that often befalls Nigeria’s entertainment legends once they fall on hard times.

“How many more legends must we lose before we start showing up for our own?” he asked. “This isn’t just about Tom. It’s about the value we place on those who gave us joy, laughter, and unforgettable stories.”

He continued:

“The same men we cheered on screen are left to suffer in silence when the curtain falls. But not this time. Not on our watch.”

CharlyBoy and his CharlyBoy Foundation have now launched a fundraising campaign calling on Nigerians — especially fans, colleagues, and philanthropists — to donate whatever they can to save the actor’s life.

“Let’s not wait for RIP hashtags. Let’s save him while we still can,” he urged. “Nothing is too small.”

Beyond Tom Njemanze: A National Men’s Health Campaign

CharlyBoy also revealed that the CharlyBoy Foundation is spearheading a nationwide campaign on prostate cancer awareness, urging Nigerian men to undergo regular screening and seek early treatment.

The campaign focuses on breaking the silence surrounding men’s health issues, particularly mental health, diabetes, and prostate-related illnesses.

“Many men are dying in silence because they don’t talk about their prostate issues,” said the septuagenarian, who described his own survival story as a call to action.

The prostate health campaign is the flagship initiative of the CharlyBoy Foundation, a nonprofit organisation working to promote wellness and preventive health practices among Nigerian men.

The foundation is planning a series of outreach events, screening drives, and public education campaigns aimed at demystifying prostate cancer and encouraging early diagnosis.