Francis Duru


Francis Duru is a Nigerian actor who in 2007 received the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award for his positive influence on the youths. In 2010 Duru was appointed as the interim president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria and also in the same year was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards.

Early life and education

In 1969 Duru was born in Cameroon to Nigerian parents who hail from Imo State a south eastern geographical location of Nigeria. Duru recrived both primary and secondary school education in Cameroon but in order to obtain a B.Sc. degree, Duru moved to Nigeria where he applied to the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State and was accepted as an undergraduate to study Theatre arts. In 1996 Duru obtained a B.Sc. degree in Theatre Arts.

Career

Duru debuted into the Nigerian movie industry in 1989 with a movie titled Missing Mark. The movie was directed by the now deceased director; Ndubuisi Oko. Duru’s feature in the movie did not do enough for his career as at the time he was still regarded as an up and coming actor.
Duru became more prominent in the Nigerian movie industry in 1994 after featuring in an action comedy movie titled Rattle Snake a movie produced by Now deceased director; Amaka Igwe. He played a significant role of a character called Ahanna.

Award

Duru was a recipient of the United Nations Ambassador of Peace award for his positive influence on the youths.

Humanitarian works

Duru has worked extensively with local and foreign non governmental organizations in order to ensure that African Children have a better education and a higher standard of living. According to a Nigerian reputable print media called the Vanguard, Duru has worked with UNICEF, USAID, LEAP AFRICA and COMPASS.

Personal life

Duru and his wife Adokiye got married in 2003 and both have four children together. Duru and Adokiye both attended the University of Port Harcourt.

Selected filmography