The word ‘Odogwu’ in the Igbo language has sought its many depictions in Nigeria across many parlance, whether it is in entertainment, politics or business, every tribe even not Igbo easily swiftly grasps its meaning. From Nigeria Breweries to billionaire Obi Cubana’s ‘Odogwu Bitters’ promoting the cliché that has gained its way into the freeway of Nigeria’s pidgin language. Odogwu is a masculine name with Igbo origin meaning ‘warrior‘ or ‘champion’ in the Igbo language. Odogwu represents a person associated with bravery and strength.
The name is primarily used in Igbo-speaking communities. But for Uzor Arukwe in the latest movie produced by Omoni Oboli studios titled; Love in Every Word alongside BigBrother Naija star, BamBam, the word ‘Odogwu’ would retell love and romance in a way never seen before. He did not only ignite the primordial instinct in the man to be provider and protector of the woman, but inspires a tall order for any man who seeks to profess love for a woman. Every Nigerian now measures men by the ‘Odogwu standard.’
But Uzor is not one man who is known to take his acting trade lightly and clearly earning his place on the top echelon of the Nigeria movie industry.
Who is Uzor Arukwe?
41 year old Uzor Arukwe hails from Nkwerre in Imo State and spent his early academic life in Rivers State where he attended the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Port Harcourt and later got his first degree in Economic from Abia State University. After receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree he later obtained his Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Calabar.
Before his stride on the big screens, Aukwe had worked with one of the telecom giants in the country, 9mobile (formerly Etisalat), later a sport equipment company and reignited the his love for acting after losing his job. Arukwe who became unemployed and was at the brink of depression got his first opportunity to act in a movie in just two scenes in the entire movie, yet he turned that one window into a turning point against the harsh conditions in the movie industry. The movie industry in Nigeria is so competitive that for someone like Arukwe breaking into the big leagues seemed impossible. Except that he give it his all.
He made his Nollywood debut in 2014 in the movie Unspoken Truth but gained recognition for his role in Sergeant Tutu. His role as a private investigator in the 2019 movie, Code Wilo also earned him more recognition. He received 2 nominations for ‘Best Actor in Comedy or Movie’ in the 2020 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for his roles in Smash and Size 12 respectively and a nomination for ‘Best Actor’ in the 2021 Best of Nollywood Awards for his role in Yours Regardless. He has featured in a lot of movies like A tribe called Judah, Malaika, Head over bills, Momiwa, Love in every words and a lot more.
On the top of his shelf performing in over 200 movies since 2014 is the latest buzz from his performance in “Love in Every Word” where he played the Odogwu character. Veteran actors, celebrities and actors have applauded Arukwe and dubbed him the latest sensation in Nigeria’s movie industry.
Uzor Arukwe has not only sought to inspire people with his acting roles, but committed himself to sharing his journey of struggle, determination and success. His untainted proclivity portends a great future for the young, vibrant and talented actor.