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Ruth Kadiri is a celebrated Nigerian actress, screenwriter, and film producer, known for her versatility, compelling performances, and outstanding contributions to Nollywood. Over the years, she has built a strong reputation as one of the most sought-after scriptwriters and actresses in the Nigerian film industry.
Early Life & Education
Born on March 24, 1988, in Benin City, Edo State, Ruth Kadiri is the eldest daughter of Mr. Desmond Kadiri. She was raised in the Ajegunle area of Lagos alongside her younger sister, Precious Kadiri. Despite growing up in a tough neighborhood, Ruth developed an early passion for storytelling and acting.
She pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, earning a degree in Mass Communication, and later studied Business Administration at Yaba College of Technology.
Career Journey
Ruth’s career began with writing stories in high school and scripting for church plays. Her professional breakthrough came at Wale Adenuga Studios, where she met filmmaker Wole Ojo, who helped shape her writing skills. She debuted on-screen in the movie “Boy’s Cot”, alongside Nollywood stars like Jim Iyke, Uche Jombo, and Mike Ezuruonye.
Since then, Ruth has acted in over 100 Nollywood films and written or co-written numerous scripts including:
- Matters Arising
- Over the Edge
- Heart of a Fighter
- First Class
- Sincerity
As a film producer, Ruth is known for producing quality stories centered on love, betrayal, and life’s moral lessons, including Memory Lane, Somebody Lied, and Matters Arising.
Awards & Nominations
Awards:
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA): Actress of the Year
Nominations:
- Golden Icons Academy Movie Awards:
- Best Actress
- Best Female Viewers’ Choice
- Best On-screen Duo (with Majid Michel)
- City People Movie Awards:
- Best Actress of the Year
- Face of Nollywood (English)
- Ghana Movie Awards:
- Best Actress African Collaboration
- Best Movie African Collaboration
Selected Filmography
| Year | Film | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Mercy the Bus Driver | Onyi |
| 2013 | Brazilian Hair Babes | Silver |
| 2014 | Matters Arising | Ogor |
| 2016 | First Class | Charity |
| 2019 | Love Is Beautiful, Tender Lies | Blessing |
| 2021 | Adunni, Larry Cold, Craving | Shade, Precious, Tejiri |
| 2023 | Honey We Are Broke, Hot Mess | Lucy, Marie |
| 2025 | Trading Your Heart | Rebecca |
Personal Life
Ruth Kadiri is married to Mr. Ezerika, a businessman from Anambra State, with whom she shares two daughters Reign Ezerika, born in August 2019, and a second child born in July 2022. Although Ruth keeps her marital life private, her social media occasionally features glimpses of her family life.
Rumored Relationships
Despite her privacy, Ruth has faced several rumors:
- Stanley Ebonine: Rumored romantic involvement denied by Ebonine.
- Eddie Watson: Sparked dating rumors due to their frequent on-screen chemistry, but both have confirmed a professional friendship.
- Apostle Suleman: Ruth strongly denied and condemned 2017 rumors linking her to the pastor.
- Anonymous “Yahoo” Guy: Unverified claims suggested she dated a married man in London.
Net Worth
Ruth Kadiri’s estimated net worth is $700,000 as of 2025. Her income stems from acting, producing, scriptwriting, and endorsements. With multiple film projects and production credits under her belt, Ruth remains a powerful and influential force in Nollywood.
Legacy
Ruth Kadiri continues to be admired not only for her acting prowess but also for her contributions behind the scenes as a writer and producer. Her impact on Nollywood reflects resilience, creativity, and a strong work ethic that inspires upcoming talents in the entertainment industry.
