Francis Duru

Francis Duru: Biography and Career Francis Ogide Duru is a highly respected Nigerian actor, entrepreneur, and humanitarian, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, since the late 1980s. Early Life and Education Francis Duru was born on July 27, 1969, in Cameroon. He hails from Okai, Eziama in Isiala Mbano, Imo State, Nigeria. After completing his initial education, Duru moved to Nigeria and pursued higher education in Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, where he obtained a B.A. degree in 1996. He has continued his academic pursuits, earning a certificate in acting and a Master’s degree in development communication from Nasarawa State University. As of recent reporting, he is pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Port Harcourt. Career Progression and Major Achievements Duru debuted in the Nigerian movie industry in 1989 with the film Missing Mark. His career gained significant prominence in 1995 after he featured in the action-comedy movie Rattlesnake, where he played the pivotal character Ahanna. His long and prolific career has established him as an influential figure in Nollywood. In 2010, Duru was appointed as the interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and was also nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards that same year. Duru is also a recipient of the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award, recognizing his positive influence on youth. In 2020, he won the Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo) award at the Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in the film Mboputa. Notable Works Francis Duru has appeared in numerous films throughout his career. Some of his selected filmography includes: Ugly Bird (2024), Abigail's Memoir (2024), Blood Vessel (2023), The Locals (2021), The Good Husband (2020), Mboputa (2020), Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018), Blood Money (1997), and Rattlesnake (1995). Personal Life and Current Status Francis Duru is a devout Christian and has served as a minister and Sunday school teacher for 24 years at Family Worship Center Abuja, where he mentors youth. He is married to Adokiye Duru, whom he wed in 2003, and the couple has four children. Duru remains active in the film industry and is also engaged in humanitarian work, collaborating with local and foreign non-governmental organizations like UNICEF, USAID, LEAP AFRICA, and COMPASS to promote better education and living standards for African children.