In a powerful display of respect and gratitude, popular actress Sola Sobowale publicly knelt before veteran actor Adebayo Salami, widely known as Oga Bello, thanking him for his decades of unwavering support and mentorship within the Nigerian film industry.

The deeply emotional moment unfolded on Sunday, June 29, at the star-studded premiere of Salami’s new film, Her Excellency. The event also served as a celebration of Oga Bello's remarkable 60th anniversary in Nollywood, highlighting his enduring legacy.

Taking the stage to speak about the industry icon, Sobowale described Salami as a profoundly selfless man whose influence had profoundly 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 declared as she went down on her knees.

With heartfelt emotion, she continued, “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 further praised him, calling him “a man of action, a man of substance, you are a giver. Thank you.” She also acknowledged his wife, adding, “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.”

Femi Adebayo, Salami’s son and a renowned actor himself, shared a video of the moving tribute on Instagram on Monday. He captioned it, “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.” He emphasized that his father is “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.”

Adebayo Salami’s latest directorial effort, Her Excellency, is set to hit cinemas on Friday, July 4. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Femi Adebayo, Sola Sobowale, Odunlade Adekola, Faithia Williams, Yemi Solade, Bimbo Ademoye, Aisha Lawal, Bukunmi Adebowale, Jide Kosoko, and Muyiwa Ademola, among other notable talents. This premiere and Sobowale's tribute underscore the deep bonds and mutual respect that define many relationships within the Nollywood community.