Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, has opened up about his unique approach to legacy and inheritance, revealing why he has chosen not to leave houses or properties for his children.
In a recent interview with The Nigerian Tribune, the 71-year-old actor emphasized that the greatest legacy he could give his children is a quality education, not material assets.
“I don’t want to leave any properties for my children. I just need two houses, one in Lagos and one in my hometown. If you meet any money in my account, share it. I’m passionate about education,” he stated.
Married to two wives and father to 18 children, Oga Bello said he made a conscious decision early in life to prioritize education over wealth accumulation. His own lack of formal educational support growing up shaped his perspective.
“Even if it’s just a first degree, I wanted all my children to be educated,” he added.
The acclaimed actor, whose career began in 1964 with the Young Concert Party led by the late Baba Mero, also addressed how his children—some of whom, like Femi Adebayo, have followed in his footsteps—entered the film industry purely out of personal interest.
“I didn’t bring or force them to the industry. Whenever I was going for rehearsals and they wanted to follow, I would say no, except they had good results in school. That made them work hard.”
Reflecting on ageing and retirement, Oga Bello offered thoughtful insights into the cultural neglect of planning for old age in Nigeria.
“Old age comes with challenges. Preparing for old age is personal. Here in Nigeria, we don’t take it seriously across professions. I invested in my children. In old age, they will take care of me.”
With a career spanning over five decades, Oga Bello remains a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry. His legacy, he believes, lies not in buildings or bank accounts, but in the values, education, and discipline he instilled in his children.
