Veteran actress, Sola Sobowale, went down on her knees in public to thank film icon, Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, for playing a major role in shaping her acting career.
The emotional tribute happened on Sunday, June 29, during the premiere of “Her Excellency”, a new political drama produced in celebration of Salami’s 60 years in the Nigerian film industry.
The movie is set for cinema release on Friday, July 4.
According to Sobowale, the 71-year-old filmmaker is one of the few selfless figures in Nollywood whose impact goes beyond the screen.
“God used him to take me where I am today. I have never done this in my life, but I am going to do it today,” she said, before going on her knees.
“Ese modupe. I am very grateful from the bottom of my heart. You did not only touch me but you touched a lot of people, both alive and dead, males and females, young and old. You touched everybody; you’re a selfless man.”
The “King of Boys” star praised Oga Bello for his generosity, mentorship, and strong family values, singling out his wife for standing beside him throughout his career.
“You are a man of action, a man of substance, you are a giver. Thank you.
“One thing that I will never forget and have been waiting for the opportunity to say is Mama Wale. You supported him, and that’s why he is standing the way he is today. You will enjoy the fruit of your labour.”
The heartfelt moment was shared on Instagram by Salami’s son and fellow actor, Femi Adebayo, who praised Sobowale for publicly acknowledging a man he described as a builder of stars.
“In a moment that transcended the lights, cameras, and glamour of last night’s premiere, #SolaSobowale went down on her knees — not for drama, but for deep, undiluted gratitude,” he wrote.
He added, “She honoured the man who has stood as a pillar in her journey — #AdebayoSalami. A legend who didn’t just act but built, groomed, corrected, encouraged, and poured into countless filmmakers, including herself.”
“Her Excellency” features a star-studded cast including Sola Sobowale, Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Faithia Williams, Bimbo Ademoye, Yemi Solade, Aisha Lawal, Muyiwa Ademola, and Jide Kosoko.
