Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, has opened up about his illustrious 60-year journey in the Nigerian film industry, his new cinema project Her Excellency, and the importance of investing in education and family.
In a recent interview, the 71-year-old thespian, who began his acting career in 1964 with the Young Concert Party led by the legendary Ojo Ladipo (Baba Mero), said he never intended for his children to follow in his footsteps, but supported their passions once they emerged.
Salami, a proud father of 18 children—many of whom are now actors, including his son Femi Adebayo—said he prioritized education over material wealth. “I didn’t get the support from my parents to pursue education, but I made sure all my children got at least a first degree,” he said. “I’ve never had plans to leave material wealth for them. I believe education is the true legacy.”
Despite being a polygamist, Salami said he remained committed to raising his children with discipline and support. “Whenever they wanted to follow me to rehearsals, I would say ‘no’ unless they had good results in school. That encouraged them to study harder.”
On staying relevant over the decades, the actor credited his adaptability and willingness to learn. “I’ve always moved with the times—from stage to video, to television, and now cinema. I even travelled to London and France to attend film production seminars. You have to learn, and let it sink in,” he said.
He also acknowledged the mentorship of late filmmaker Adeyemi Afolayan (Ade Love), under whom he gained practical industry experience.
Reflecting on the losses that deeply affected him, Salami recalled the death of his mentor Ojo Ladipo and his wife. “After his death, I wasn’t sure I wanted to continue. But a doctor, Ogunbode, encouraged me and told me that through every test comes elevation. That gave me the courage to continue.”
Salami identified Omo Gbemiga as the stage play that brought him into the spotlight, while Omo Oru Kan (1987) gave him widespread fame.
As part of activities marking his 60 years on stage, Salami is releasing a new film titled Her Excellency, a remake of his earlier work Agbara Obinrin. The project, directed by Tope Adebayo and Tope Tijani, features an impressive cast including Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, Femi Adebayo, Yemi Solade, Fathia Balogun, and Aishat Lawal.
Describing the film as dear to his heart, Salami explained that it tackles themes of family, leadership, and the influential role of women in marriage. “I don’t produce movies without meaning. This one shows that a woman can either support or destroy her husband’s life, and we must be careful.”
As one of the few actors whose career has spanned both the traditional and modern eras of Nollywood, Salami praised the growth of the industry. “Culture is dynamic. We now have more technically skilled people, more talented actors, and better opportunities to earn from our work.”
However, he noted that health challenges remain a major concern for ageing actors. “Old age comes with its challenges, and many in our profession fail to prepare. I didn’t plan my retirement fully, but I invested in my children, and they are my support now.”
When asked how he wants to be remembered, the seasoned actor said, “I want to be remembered for the messages I passed through my movies.”
ADEBAYO SALAMI: I INVESTED IN MY CHILDREN INSTEAD…
