Early Life
Dr. Kola Oyewo was born on March 27, 1946, in Oba-Ile, Osun State, Nigeria. He grew up in southwestern Nigeria, where he developed a passion for Yoruba culture, theatre, and storytelling from an early age.
Educational Background
Kola Oyewo pursued his education at Obafemi Awolowo University, where he obtained certificates in Dramatic Arts and Yoruba Oral Literature before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts in 1995. He later attended University of Ibadan, where he obtained both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in Drama.
Career
Kola Oyewo began his professional acting career in 1964 when he joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. His first major role was Adejare in Orogun Adedigba. After spending nine years with the troupe, he joined the University of Ife Theatre, where he worked closely with renowned dramatist Ola Rotimi.
He became widely celebrated for his portrayal of Odewale in the acclaimed play The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that established him as one of Nigeria’s finest stage actors.
Throughout his career, he appeared in several notable productions, including:
- Sango
- Saworoide
- Koseegbe
- Super Story
- O Le Ku
His contributions helped shape Yoruba theatre and modern Nollywood.
Academic Career
Beyond acting, Kola Oyewo was an accomplished scholar and lecturer. In 1996, he joined Obafemi Awolowo University as a lecturer and eventually rose to the rank of Senior Lecturer. After retiring in 2011, he served at Redeemer’s University and later taught Performing Arts at Elizade University. Over several decades, he mentored generations of actors, playwrights, and theatre scholars.
Family and Personal Life
Kola Oyewo was known for maintaining a private family life despite his fame. He was respected not only as an actor but also as a mentor, educator, and cultural ambassador dedicated to preserving Yoruba traditions and theatre.
Death
On June 12, 2026, Kola Oyewo passed away at the age of 80. His death was announced by colleagues and family members, prompting tributes from across Nigeria’s entertainment and academic communities. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian theatre, film, and arts education.
Net Worth
Kola Oyewo’s net worth was never publicly disclosed. His income came primarily from acting, teaching, directing, theatre productions, and academic work. No verified estimate of his personal wealth is available.
