Kola Oyewo is a well-known Nigerian actor, director, and teacher who has been dedicated to theatre for over four decades. He is considered one of the pioneers of contemporary Nigerian theatre and has earned numerous awards for his contributions to the industry.
Early Life and Education
Kola Oyewo was born in Ile-Ife, Nigeria, on March 26, 1946. He attended the University of Ibadan, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts in 1972. While at the university, he developed a passion for acting and theatre production and began to take part in various stage plays and productions.
Career
Kola Oyewo started his acting career in the early 1970s when he joined the Ori Olokun Theatre, Ile Ife. In 1983, he became a member of Theatre Kakanfo, a leading travelling theatre company in Nigeria, where he developed his skills as an actor and director.
Kola Oyewo has acted in several Nollywood movies, including “The Narrow Path,” “The Figurine,” “October 1,” and “Kamisi.” In addition to acting, he has directed and produced several plays and is the founder of Theatrology, a company that specializes in stage plays and theatre productions.
Filmography
| Movie | Year |
|---|---|
| The Narrow Path | 2016 |
| The Figurine | 2009 |
| October 1 | 2014 |
| Kamisi | 2008 |
Some of his stage productions include “Death and the King’s Horseman,” “The Trials of Brother Jero,” and “The Lion and the Jewel.”
To watch some of Kola Oyewo’s performances, you can check out his YouTube channel
Personal Life
Kola Oyewo is married with children and keeps his personal life private.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Kola Oyewo’s net worth in US dollars is estimated to be around $1 million. In Nigerian Naira, his net worth is approximately ₦400 million. Converted to other currencies, his net worth is approximately CAD 1.3 million, GHS 5.6 million, KES 108 million, ZAR 13.6 million, UGX 3.7 billion, and INR 73.1 crores.
Awards and Recognition
Kola Oyewo has received awards both locally and internationally for his outstanding contributions to the theatre industry. Some of his notable awards include:
- Best Actor, African Movie Academy Awards, 2009
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Nigerian Entertainment Awards, 2013
- Order of the Niger, 2014
- Best Actor in a Drama, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, 2015
Kola Oyewo remains committed to promoting the arts in Nigeria and beyond and continues to inspire young actors and theatre practitioners.