Yinka Quadri Explains Why Yoruba Actors Support Tinubu’s Second Term

Veteran Yoruba actor Yinka Quadri has explained why he and other practitioners in the film industry support President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term, citing the President’s longstanding assistance to entertainers and infrastructure development in the South-West.

Quadri spoke during an interview on the African A-List programme, recalling instances in which Tinubu provided financial support to members of the entertainment industry, dating back to his tenure as governor of Lagos State.

The actor said the support was not simply about personal benefits but reflected a history of assistance to practitioners during difficult times.

He recalled that Tinubu paid the hospital bills of late Nollywood actor Babatunde Omidina, popularly known as Baba Suwe, while he was battling an illness.

Quadri also recounted how Tinubu provided $25,000 to help repatriate the remains of actress Moji Olaiya from Canada following her death in 2017.

According to him, he visited Tinubu’s residence in Bourdillon, Lagos, alongside fellow actors Fathia Balogun, Yomi Fabiyi and others to seek financial assistance for the arrangements.

He said Tinubu asked how much was required and subsequently provided the funds.

Quadri added that the President had continued to make resources available to entertainers who approached him for assistance.

Beyond personal experiences, the actor cited infrastructure projects in the South-West as another reason for his support, mentioning the Papalanto–Sagamu road and the Sagamu–Ijebu-Ode route.

He acknowledged that the projects did not address every infrastructure need in the region but said he appreciated the efforts.

Quadri also identified pension payments to retirees and the operations of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as areas he considered positive under the Tinubu administration.

His comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with supporters of the President making public arguments for his re-election.

Yoruba movie stars have previously expressed support for Tinubu’s political ambitions. In 2022, Quadri joined actors including Jide Kosoko, Fausat Balogun, Taiwo Hassan and Femi Adebayo in backing his presidential bid ahead of the 2023 election.

Quadri’s remarks highlight the role of personal relationships, financial assistance and perceived government achievements in shaping political support among sections of Nigeria’s entertainment industry.