Veteran Nollywood actor, dramatist, filmmaker and academic, Dr. Kola Oyewo, has died at the age of 80, bringing to a close a remarkable career that spanned more than six decades in Nigeria’s theatre, film and academic sectors.
News of his passing was announced on Friday by actor Kunle Afod in an Instagram post.
“Kola Oyewo has taken his final bow,” Afod wrote, describing the late actor as a gifted performer whose immense contributions to the Nigerian theatre and film industry would continue to inspire future generations.
Born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Oyewo began his acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, where he honed his craft before emerging as one of the most respected figures in Yoruba theatre and Nigerian cinema.
He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Odewale in the celebrated play, The Gods Are Not to Blame, written by renowned playwright Ola Rotimi.
The role earned him recognition across Africa and cemented his place among the continent’s finest stage actors.
Trajectory of his career
Throughout his illustrious career, Oyewo featured in several notable productions, including Saworoide, Sango, Koseegbe, Super Story and numerous Yoruba-language films that helped shape and expand Nigeria’s movie industry.
Beyond the stage and screen, Oyewo distinguished himself as a scholar and mentor.
He earned a doctorate degree in Drama from the University of Ibadan and taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Redeemer’s University and Elizade University.
Through his teaching, research and mentorship, he nurtured generations of actors, playwrights and scholars, leaving an enduring impact on Nigeria’s creative and academic communities.
His death marks the end of an era for Nigerian theatre and film, but his legacy lives on through the countless performances, students and artistic works he inspired.
Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, admirers and members of the entertainment industry who remember him as a consummate professional, cultural icon and dedicated teacher whose contributions enriched Nigeria’s artistic heritage.
