Actress Sola Sobowale publicly went down on her knees to thank veteran actor Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, for his decades of support and mentorship in the industry.
The emotional moment took place on Sunday, June 29, at the premiere of his new film Her Excellency, held in honour of Salami’s 60th anniversary in Nollywood. The film is scheduled for cinema release on Friday, July 4.
Coming on stage to speak about the industry icon, Sobowale described Salami as a selfless man whose influence transformed her life and career.
“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 as she went down on her knees.
“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.”
Sobowale continued, “You are a man of action, a man of substance, you are a giver. Thank you.
“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.”
Sharing the video of the moment on Instagram on Monday, Salami’s son and fellow actor, Femi Adebayo, wrote, “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.
“After the screening of HER EXCELLENCY, she honoured the man who has stood as a pillar in her journey—#adebayo.salami. A legend who didn’t just act but built, groomed, corrected, encouraged, and poured into countless filmmakers, including herself.
“It was more than a thank you—it was a salute to decades of selfless dedication, fatherhood in the industry, and a legacy that continues to raise giants.”