Nollywood Star Kunle Afod's Heartwarming Visit to Veteran Actor Kola Oyewo
In a touching display of intergenerational respect within Nigeria's film industry, popular Nollywood actor Kunle Afod recently paid a special visit to veteran actor Kola Oyewo ahead of his milestone 80th birthday celebration. The visit, which was documented and shared on social media, revealed not only the strong bonds within the entertainment community but also shed light on the health challenges facing one of Nigeria's most respected theatrical figures.
Birthday Celebration Postponed Due to Lenten Period
Kola Oyewo, who is both a retired university lecturer and accomplished actor, actually turned 80 in March but made the decision to postpone his birthday celebration to April 18th out of respect for the Lenten period. This thoughtful postponement demonstrates the veteran's commitment to his faith and spiritual values, even as he approaches this significant personal milestone.
During the visit, Afod conducted an extensive interview with Oyewo that covered multiple aspects of the veteran's life, including his current health situation, his remarkable academic journey, and his decades-long contributions to Nigerian theater and film. The younger actor also took the opportunity to call upon fans and well-wishers to contribute to a fundraising effort aimed at supporting Oyewo's healthcare needs in his advanced years.
Health Challenges: Enlarged Prostate and Heart Condition
In perhaps the most revealing segment of their conversation, Oyewo opened up about his ongoing battle with an enlarged prostate, a condition that has significantly impacted his quality of life. The octogenarian explained that when the condition first manifested, he experienced considerable difficulties with urine control, creating both physical discomfort and practical challenges in his daily routine.
Compounding this prostate issue is a separate heart condition that has restricted Oyewo's mobility. Despite these health setbacks, the veteran actor maintains a remarkably positive outlook, noting that he has seen gradual improvement in his condition and that he remains open to taking on select acting roles that don't require extensive physical movement.
"I can still take on a few acting roles that do not require much movement," Oyewo stated during the interview, demonstrating his enduring passion for his craft despite physical limitations.
Interestingly, when medical professionals initially advised him to seek specialized treatment in Akure following his diagnosis, Oyewo chose instead to return home and continue his treatment with his regular doctor—a decision that reflects both his trust in established medical relationships and his practical approach to healthcare management.
Academic Excellence: From Classroom to PhD
Beyond his acting credentials, Kola Oyewo boasts an impressive academic background that many might find surprising. The veteran revealed that he once shared university classes with his own son, Adeyemi, before going on to complete his PhD in 2005—an achievement that speaks volumes about his lifelong commitment to education.
Oyewo served as an Associate Professor at Ekiti State University before retirement and also contributed his expertise at Redeemer's University. He credits his late wife with playing a pivotal role in his educational journey, noting that she was the one who collected his GCE form, thereby setting in motion his return to formal education and subsequent academic accomplishments.
Theatrical Roots: Beginning at Age Nine
Oyewo's connection to performance arts runs remarkably deep, with the veteran revealing that he began acting alongside the legendary Oyin Adejobi at just nine years old. His early start was so profound that many people assumed he was actually Adejobi's biological son, given how closely they worked together from such a young age.
His theatrical journey continued as he moved to the Ori Olokun Cultural Theatre, where he was recruited by Olarotimi. In those formative years, Oyewo and his fellow performers traveled extensively from place to place, bringing stage plays to diverse audiences across the region—a testament to the touring nature of traditional Nigerian theater before the advent of modern film production.
Fan Reactions and Industry Support
The video of Afod's visit generated significant engagement on social media, with fans and former students expressing their admiration and support for both actors. One commenter, @bimbola_x, recalled: "Awwwww It was Sir Kola Oyewo who conducted my interview for Redeemers University. He was so chill, and friendly."
Another user, @enioluwaofficial, wrote emotionally: "OMG! My Professor back in school. He taught me in Uni. I would honestly love to see him again. Prof. Kola Oyewo."
This visit continues Afod's pattern of supporting veteran actors within the Nollywood community. Previously, he has visited and provided assistance to other industry elders, including Elere Pianos, whom he gifted on his birthday and helped with house renovations.
Context: Afod's Own Milestone Celebration
Interestingly, Kunle Afod himself recently celebrated a significant birthday milestone, having turned 50 years old. Some fans expressed surprise at his age, noting that they had been watching him in films for over two decades. This generational connection—with Afod at 50 paying respects to Oyewo at 80—highlights the continuity and mutual respect that characterizes Nigeria's vibrant film industry.
The interaction between these two actors from different generations serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring those who paved the way for today's Nollywood success. As Oyewo prepares for his belated 80th birthday celebration, the support from colleagues like Afod and the wider entertainment community underscores the familial bonds that exist within Nigerian arts and culture.
