By Today, the Nigerian movie arena celebrates veteran Nollywood actor, Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, who turns 70.
A living movie legend, Oga Bello is one of the very few in Nollywood who can boast of an acting career spanning over of five decades.
Born in Lagos on May 9, 1952, the Kwara State indigene began his foray into the world of acting at the age of eleven. The young Salami, beaming with talent, was part of a theatre group called Young Concert Party, led by late Ojo Ladipo. The group of the bourgeoning actors would later become Awada Kerikeri Theatre Group.
The death of Ladipo in 1978 elevated Salami to emerge the group’s leader. As Awada Kerikeri grew in leaps and bounds, Salami grew in popularity too. He would go on to feature in his first Yoruba film, Ajani Ogun, in which the lead role was played late renowned filmmaker, Adeyemi Afolayan, better known as Ade Love — the father of Kunle Afolayan and Gabriel Afolayan.
In 1985, he produced his first movie, Ogun Ajaye from the stable of Awada Kerikeri, launching him into the corridors of movie production.
Interestingly, Salami earned the stage name, Oga Bello following his appearance in the popular Nigerian comedy series Comedy, half hour, which dominated the Nigerian screens at the time.
Since the days of Ogun Ajaye, the living movie legend, known for his impressive interpretation of roles, has featured in several movies and featured in countless projects in production or directorial capacity. He also once served as the President of the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners.
Oga Bello has been involved with different women and his association produced 17 children who are all graduates. The most popular of his kids are award-winning actor and filmmaker, Femi Adebayo and his brother, movie director, Tope Adebayo.
Happy birthday Oga Bello!
