Nigeria -Friday, July 4, 2025
Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, has been honoured with a new political thriller film, Her Excellency, to mark his 60 years of active service in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
The Merit Newspaper reports that the film, which premiered on Sunday, June 29, 2025, and hit cinemas nationwide on July 4, 2025, was produced by Femi Adebayo Salami—his son—and co-directed by Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami.
Set in the fictional Salim State, Her Excellency explores the life of a stylish and powerful First Lady whose perfectly curated image comes under threat when a murder investigation begins to unravel her closely guarded secrets. The movie blends suspense, political intrigue, and family drama in a compelling story that resonates with themes of ambition, power, and betrayal.
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The film features a star-studded ensemble including Sola Sobowale, Odunlade Adekola, Faithia Williams, Bimbo Ademoye, Yemi Solade, Aisha Lawal, Muyiwa Ademola, Jide Kosoko, and internet sensation Bukunmi “Kie Kie” Adebowale, among others. Many cast members reportedly participated in the project pro bono in honour of Oga Bello’s immense contributions to the industry.
A heartwarming moment during the premiere was when Sola Sobowale knelt to appreciate Adebayo Salami for his lifelong mentorship and support. She described him as a “legend who didn’t just act but groomed, built, and poured into generations of Nigerian actors and filmmakers.”
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Speaking at the premiere, Femi Adebayo said the film was not just another production but a personal project meant to honour his father’s remarkable journey in Nigerian theatre and film, which began in the 1960s with the Young Concert Party, later renamed Awada Kerikeri.
“Her Excellency is a tribute to a man who laid the foundation for many of us in the industry. He didn’t just tell stories—he built legacies,” Femi said.
The film marks a significant moment in Nollywood, blending old-school artistry with modern cinematic techniques. Critics and fans alike have praised the film’s plot, direction, and emotional depth, especially as it comes at a time when tributes in Nollywood are mostly limited to posthumous documentaries or social media posts.
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As audiences continue to troop into cinemas across the country, Her Excellency stands out not only as a gripping political drama but also as a cinematic celebration of one of Nollywood’s most enduring icons.
