“You have inspired countless creatives including myself” – Femi Adebayo celebrates Tunde Kelani as he marks his birthday

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo Salami has penned a heartfelt note to movie director, Tunde Kelani as he turns a new age today, February 26th, 2025.

Taking to his Instagram page to share photos of the veteran, Femi described him as a true filmmaking legend. He noted how Tunde’s dedication to storytelling, culture, and excellence has inspired countless creatives, including himself.

He further noted how Tunde Kelani’s vision, passion, and commitment to preserving their heritage through cinema are unmatched. Femi appreciated him for being a guiding light and a mentor to many.

Wishing him a happy birthday, Femi Adebayo prayed for more years of good health, happiness, and groundbreaking achievements.

“Happy Birthday to a true filmmaking legend, Uncle TK (@tundekelani). Your dedication to storytelling, culture, and excellence has inspired countless creatives, including myself.

Your vision, passion, and commitment to preserving our heritage through cinema are unmatched. Thank you for being a guiding light and a mentor to many. Wishing you many more years of good health, happiness, and groundbreaking achievements. Enjoy your special day sir”.

A year back, Tunde Kelani had penned special birthday greetings to Femi Adebayo’s father, Adebayo Salami. Noting that Oga Bello is his dear friend and brother, TK prayed for the guidance and abundant blessings of God on him, urging him to enjoy his day.

In 2023, congratulatory messages poured in for Tunde Kelani as his movie, “Cordelia,” featured at the New York African Festival. Taking to his comment section, the likes of Femi Adebayo, Yvonne Jegede, Brodashaggi, and Samuel Olatunji rejoiced with him.

Also that year, the award-winning director announced the return of the legendary Yoruba movie Saworoide 2. Celebrities like Bimbo Ademoye, Kunle Remi, Toyin Abraham, Mr Macaroni, Ibrahim Chatta, Femi Adebayo, Bukola Arugba, Aisha Lawal, and a host of others expressed excitement about the movie sequel.

The movie director had once brought Toyin Abraham to tears with his review of her movie, Ijakumo. Kelani crowned it as the best Christmas and New Year present, above Funke Akindele’s movie, Battle on Buka Streets.