Ruth Kadiri – Early Life & Education
Born on March 24, 1988, in Benin City, Edo State, Ruth Kadiri is the first child of Desmond Kadiri. Though her roots lie in Edo, she was raised in the bustling Ajegunle neighborhood of Lagos alongside her younger sister, Precious. Even as a child, Ruth harbored unwavering ambition—scribbling on her bedroom wall that by 18 she would rent her own place, a bold declaration that shaped her determination early on.
She’s academically grounded too, holding a B.Sc. in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos and a diploma in Business Administration from Yaba College of Technology
Growing Up in Ajegunle: The Making of Her Identity
Ruth often credits her upbringing in Ajegunle with molding her character.
“Growing up in Ajegunle made me who I am today.”
In interviews, she’s described how life in the slum sharpened her resilience:
“Growing up in the slum helps you to find yourself. It’s either you are defined or you are not. Growing up as a child in Ajegunle, it’s either you get lost or it helps you find your way. Right now, there are so many mistakes I can’t make…”
That formative environment taught her discipline, self-definition, and the importance of focus—qualities that became her North Star in life and career.
Rising Through Nollywood
Ruth’s career in Nollywood began with Boys Cot (2007), sharing the screen with stars like Jim Iyke, Uche Jombo, and Mike Ezuruonye
Since then, she has acted in over 100 films, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the craft.
But Ruth isn’t just in front of the camera—she’s a creative force behind it too. She has written and co-written scripts like Matters Arising, Heart of a Fighter, Sincerity, First Class, and Over the Edge. As a producer, her notable works include Matters Arising, Somebody Lied, Over the Edge, and Memory Lane.
Ruth Kadiri – Philosophy & Career Wisdom
Ruth’s early self-awareness and exposure to hardship informed her professional philosophy:
Ambition Rooted in Action: Even as a teen, she prioritized independence—her bedroom motto reminded her daily of her goals
Stay True, Stay Focused: “Not everyone will appreciate your style… the easiest thing is to follow the trend. But if you stick to your style and know you’re doing the right thing, you will get to where you desire”—a mindset that’s guided her in an industry prone to distractions
Ruth Kadiri – Personal Life & Impact
Ruth keeps much of her personal life private, but here’s what’s publicly known:
Family: She’s married (since around 2017) and has two daughters—her first born in August 2019 and the second in July 2022
Philanthropy & Entrepreneurship: Ruth is the founder of Ruth Kadiri Films and RuthKolors, her haircare business. She also contributes to her community through her Ruth Kadiri Kids Foundation, supporting children—many reminiscent of her Ajegunle upbringing
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