As veteran filmmaker, Adebayo Salami, aka Oga Bello, marks his 60th anniversary in the industry, the President of the Theatre and Motion Pictures Producers Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji Amusan, popularly called Baba Latin, has described him as a national treasure.
According to Latin, Salami is a living legend who has greatly impacted the sector.
In a tribute on his Facebook page, Latin writes:
CELEBRATING A LEGEND: ADEBAYO SALAMI (OGA BELLO) – 60 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE ON STAGE AND SCREEN
As the curtain rises on the premiere of Her Excellency tomorrow, June 29, we stand in awe and reverence of a titan whose name is etched permanently in the golden annals of African cinema — Alhaji Adebayo Salami, fondly known as Oga Bello.
“For six glorious decades, Oga Bello has graced our screens and stages with unmatched grace, depth, and distinction. A pioneer, a mentor, a cultural custodian, and a beacon of artistic brilliance, his journey from the humble beginnings of the theatre to becoming a cornerstone of Nollywood is nothing short of inspirational.His newest work, Her Excellency, is not just a film — it is a testimony of resilience, relevance, and reinvention. Even after 60 years, Oga Bello continues to break new grounds, telling compelling stories that resonate across generations.
“On behalf of the entire creative community and all lovers of African storytelling, we celebrate you, sir. Your legacy is not only in the roles you played, but in the lives you have shaped and the industry you helped build. Congratulations on 60 magnificent years. May your legacy continue to shine brightly and your impact echo for generations to come. A living legend. A national treasure. A global icon.”
