Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo has died at the age of 40 after a reported battle with cancer.

Reports on Tuesday indicated that the actor passed away on Monday after months of illness, throwing Nigeria’s entertainment industry into mourning.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans and entertainers across the country, with many describing Ekubo as one of Nollywood’s most recognisable stars.

Born Alex Ekubo-Okwaraeke, the actor rose to fame after emerging first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition before building a successful acting career.

He featured in several Nollywood productions, including Weekend Getaway, Merry Men, Omo Ghetto: The Saga and A Sunday Affair.

Ekubo had reportedly stayed away from public appearances and social media in recent months due to his health condition.

His death marks another major loss for Nigeria’s film industry.