Alexx Ekubo-Okwaraeke (10 April 1986 โ 12 May 2026) was a Nigerian actor, entertainer, and humanitarian. He was known for his work in Nollywood films, particularly romantic comedies and dramas.
๐ฌ Early Life and Education
Ekubo was a native of Arochukwu, Abia State in the south-eastern region of Nigeria. He attended Federal Government College Daura, Katsina State in the Northern region of Nigeria. He studied law at the University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. He was also awarded an Honorary Degree in Arts & Culture from the Institut Supรฉrieur de Communication et de Gestion (ISCG University) Cotonou, Republic of Benin, 2021.
๐ Career Beginnings and Recognition
Ekubo gained wider recognition after emerging as the first runner-up at the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest and later starring in the film Weekend Getaway. In 2020, he was recognized among the โMost Influential People of African Descentโ under 40 for his contributions to entertainment and social development in Africa. His film debut was a minor role in Lancelot Oduwa Imaseunโs Sinners in the house (2003).
๐ฅ Filmography and Global Reach
He later starred in Afamefuna, Power of 1, A Sunday Affair, Omo Ghetto: The Saga, The Bling Lagosians, Catch.er, Zero Hour, The First Lady, Lagos Cougars, Weekend Getaway, among other films. With over 100 films to his credit, Ekubo worked with leading Nollywood filmmakers and was increasingly recognized as a cultural bridge between African and diaspora cinema. His appearances at film festivals across the world and work with streaming platform giants positioned him as a global African talent.
๐ค Humanitarian Work and Awards
Beyond entertainment, Ekubo was a humanitarian and philanthropist youth advocate. He participated in numerous charitable initiatives and outreach programmes across Nigeria and the West African region. In 2020 He received a certificate of excellence from the Sapio Club SGD for an exemplary contribution to the African Entertainment & Humanitarian Effort. In 2021, he was awarded the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year by the Nigerian National Awards for his charity efforts. Ekubo was recognized in 2023 as the Rotary Youth Ambassador of the year under Rotary International District 9142.
๐ Personal Life and Death
Ekubo was known for his distinctive fashion presence, and was frequently featured on best-dressed lists across Africa. He maintained a private lifestyle and often used his platform to advocate for social causes and youth empowerment. Ekubo died from liver cancer on 12 May 2026, at the age of 40. According to family sources, the actor died after months of illness and prolonged absence from the public eye which had raised concerns among fans and colleagues.
| Category | Detail | Year | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth | 10 April 1986 | 1986 | Text |
| Death | 12 May 2026 (liver cancer) | 2026 | Text |
| Notable Award | First runner-up, Mr. Nigeria 2010 | 2010 | Text |
| Humanitarian Honor | Rotary Youth Ambassador of the Year | 2023 | Text |