Dakore Egbuson-Akande

Dakore Egbuson-Akande: Nigerian Actress, Activist, and Entrepreneur Dakore Egbuson-Akande (born Dakore Omobola Egbuson on October 14, 1978) is a highly prominent Nigerian actress, singer, and television personality. She is regarded as one of the most influential and recognizable figures in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, celebrated for her versatility, professionalism, and consistent contributions to cinema and television over two decades. Early Life and Education Dakore Egbuson was born in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, but spent her early years in Lagos and Bauchi. She is the first child of her parents and has three siblings, including her younger brother, the actor and musician Timini Egbuson. Her education began in Lagos, where she attended private primary and secondary schools. She later attended the University of Lagos, where she studied Mass Communication. However, she was forced to drop out before completing her degree due due to persistent industrial strikes by university unions at the time, which led her to focus entirely on her budding acting career. Career Progression Dakore began her acting career in 1999, debuting in the film *Mixed Feelings*. She quickly became a sought-after leading actress during Nollywood's "golden age" in the early 2000s, known for her ability to embody complex and diverse characters. Her early career saw her star in over 50 films, establishing her as a serious dramatic talent. In 2007, she took a five-year hiatus from acting to focus on her marriage and family. She made a powerful return to the screen in 2012, transitioning seamlessly into the new Nollywood era, focusing on high-budget cinematic productions. Major Achievements and Notable Works Dakore Egbuson-Akande's career is marked by several notable film roles and industry recognition. Her early notable films include *Emotional Crack* (2003) and *Shattered Illusion* (2004). Her return to cinema saw her star in critically acclaimed movies such as *Journey to Self* (2013), *Isoken* (2017), and *The Set Up* (2019). She received significant praise for her role in *Isoken*, which explored modern Nigerian societal pressures on single women, earning her an Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Beyond acting, Egbuson-Akande has served as a brand ambassador for major global and local companies. She is also recognized for her humanitarian efforts, particularly as an ambassador for Amnesty International and for her advocacy in education and health. Current Status Dakore Egbuson-Akande remains an active and influential figure in Nollywood. She is continually involved in producing and acting in major film projects and has expanded her presence to include television series and streaming platforms. She currently resides in Lagos, Nigeria, with her husband, Olumide Akande, and their children, balancing her prolific career with her public advocacy work. Her commitment to quality storytelling and women's empowerment has cemented her status as a respected veteran in African entertainment.