President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated veteran filmmaker, actor, and retired Theatre Arts lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Alagba Kola Oyewo, on reaching the milestone of his 80th birthday.
In a statement released on Saturday via Presidency Nigeria on X, the President described Oyewo as a national treasure and a distinguished ambassador of Yoruba theatre and Nigerian storytelling. He emphasized that Oyewo’s contributions have profoundly shaped the country’s cultural and creative landscape over decades.
Highlighting Oyewo’s long-standing influence across theatre, film, and academia, Tinubu noted that the veteran actor’s work has inspired generations of practitioners and scholars in the performing arts. “Oyewo is a veteran thespian and a distinguished cultural icon whose enduring contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s theatre, film, and cultural productions have left an indelible mark on generations of artistes and scholars,” the President said.
Tinubu also acknowledged Oyewo’s pivotal role in preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage through his work on stage, screen, and in the classroom. He described Oyewo’s career as one marked by discipline, dedication, and excellence, underscoring the actor’s influence on both creative practice and cultural education.
“From the stage to the screen and the classroom, your work reflects a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage,” Tinubu said. “Your brilliance, discipline, and dedication have not only elevated the standards of performing arts in Nigeria but have also inspired countless young talents to pursue excellence in the creative industry.”
The President further emphasized that Oyewo’s achievements highlight the broader role of the arts in national development, particularly in education, identity, and social cohesion. “Your remarkable career stands as a testament to the power of art as a tool for education, national identity, and social cohesion. May you experience good health, peace, and fulfilment, as your legacy continues to inspire present and future generations,” he added.
Oyewo’s eight decades on Earth mark a life dedicated to the growth of Nigeria’s cultural and artistic sectors, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the country’s creative and academic communities.
