Sola Sobowale honours mentor Adebayo Salami, kneeling in gratitude at the “Her Excellency” premiere for his pivotal role in shaping her Nollywood career

Sola Sobowale honours mentor Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, in a rare public gesture that has captivated the Nollywood community and beyond.

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The veteran actress knelt in front of the film icon during the premiere of Her Excellency, a new political drama celebrating Salami’s 60 years in the Nigerian film industry.

The emotional moment unfolded on Sunday, June 29, at the film’s grand unveiling, where Sobowale surprised many by going down on her knees in front of an audience to express her gratitude.

“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 kneeling.

“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,” she added.

Sobowale, renowned for her powerhouse role in King of Boys, credited Oga Bello for shaping her path in Nollywood. She praised his unwavering generosity, mentorship, and deep-rooted family values.

The 71-year-old Salami, who began his acting career in 1964, is widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of Yoruba theatre and cinema.

The tribute drew a rousing ovation from the audience, as many in the industry acknowledged the significance of the moment. Sobowale also took time to appreciate Salami’s wife, describing her as a quiet force behind the legend’s decades-long success.

“You are a man of action, a man of substance, you are a giver. Thank you,” she said. “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 exchange was captured on video and later shared on Instagram by Salami’s son, Femi Adebayo, who is also an acclaimed actor and producer. Femi praised Sobowale for publicly recognising the man he called “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.

“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* is slated for cinema release on Friday, July 4, and boasts a star-studded cast including Sobowale, Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Faithia Williams, Bimbo Ademoye, Yemi Solade, Aisha Lawal, Muyiwa Ademola, and Jide Kosoko.

The film explores the intersection of politics and power, told through the lens of a dynamic female lead navigating Nigeria’s turbulent political landscape. It also serves as a tribute to Salami’s enduring legacy, showcasing the talent he helped shape over decades.

Sola Sobowale honours mentor in a moment that is now etched in Nollywood history, reminding the industry of the importance of gratitude and legacy.

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Her actions have sparked conversations about mentorship and respect within Nigerian entertainment, with many calling for more public recognition of those who laid the groundwork.