Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo was one of the most recognisable faces in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, known for his performances in movies, television productions, comedy skits and humanitarian activities.

The actor reportedly died at the age of 40 after an alleged battle with stage 4 liver cancer, a development that has left many fans and colleagues in shock.

Early Life And Background

Alexx Ekubo was born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, but hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State.

Known for his tall frame and charismatic personality, he was fluent in English, Igbo and Hausa languages.

Before his rise to fame in Nollywood, he gained public attention after emerging first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria competition in 2010, a breakthrough that opened doors for him in the entertainment industry.

Education Journey

The late actor attended Federal Government College, Daura, in Katsina State for his secondary school education.

He later studied Law at the University of Calabar before eventually obtaining a degree in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic.

Rise In Nollywood

Alexx Ekubo began acting professionally in the early 2010s and quickly became one of the most sought-after actors in Nollywood.

His charming screen presence and versatility helped him land roles in several successful movies and television productions.

Some of the popular movies he featured in include:

• Lagos Cougars
• Weekend Getaway
• In The Cupboard
• Dream Walker
• Blazing Heart
• The First Lady
• Hire A Woman
• Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons
• Sugar Rush
• Fate of Alakada

Aside from acting, he also built a strong reputation as a television personality, event host, model and brand ambassador.

Humanitarian Activities And Recognition

Beyond entertainment, Alexx Ekubo was actively involved in charity and humanitarian causes.

In 2020, he was inducted into the Most Influential People of African Descent/United Nations Top 100 Under 40 Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact and achievements.

He also received a Certificate of Excellence from Sapio Club SDG for his contributions to African entertainment and humanitarian service.

In 2021, he was honoured with the Nigerian National Award of Excellence as the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year.

That same year, he received an honorary doctorate degree in Arts and Culture from Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Gestion University in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

Awards And Achievements

Over the years, the actor received several local and international recognitions for his contributions to Nollywood.

Some of his awards include:

• BEFFTA Award (London) – Nollywood Rising Star (2014)
• Screen Nation Film and TV Award – Favourite Male African International Emerging Screen Talent (2014)
• Nigerian Teen Choice Award – Outstanding TV Personality (2015)
• Best of Nollywood Award – Best Actor of the Year (2016)
• Nigerian Model Achievers Award – Model Actor of the Year (2016)
• Special Recognition Award from the First Lady of Nigeria (2018)
• Best of Nollywood Award – Best Lead Actor (2022)
• Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival – Best Actor of the Year (2022)
• Rotary International District 9142 – Rotary Youth Ambassador of the Year (2023)

Private Life Away From The Spotlight

Despite his celebrity status, Alexx Ekubo largely kept his personal life away from public scrutiny.

He remained active in entertainment, social events, endorsements and philanthropic projects while maintaining a relatively private lifestyle outside the spotlight.

His reported passing has continued to generate tributes across Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues reflecting on his legacy and impact on Nollywood.