From Ibadan Streets to Nollywood Stardom: Dr. Akintola Akin-Lewis Unveils His Remarkable Journey and Life Lessons on Okebadan”.
Veteran Nollywood actor Dr. Akintola Akin-Lewis recently opened up about his formative years growing up in Ibadan and across Nigeria, sharing both heartwarming and harrowing experiences on Oke’badan with Temilade.
Okebadan, a program anchored by the charismatic Temilade Aloko. The show, which dives into the history, evolution, and spirit of Ibadan, spotlighted Akin-Lewis’s incredible journey from a young drama enthusiast to a Nollywood legend.
Akin-Lewis recalled his school days at St. James Primary School and Lagelu Secondary School in Ibadan, followed by his early acting career with the OduThemes dramatic group under Professor Bode Sowande in 1973. His journey eventually led him to WNTV (now NTA), where he joined the station’s pioneering drama group, laying the foundation for his career in entertainment.
He shared a life-changing memory from his time in Northern Nigeria during a tense crisis, revealing how a mark beside one of his eyes almost got him killed for mistaken identity and likely harm.
The actor, who originally hails from Owu in Abeokuta, spent most of his life in Ibadan, where he thrived before pursuing global opportunities.
Reminiscing about Ibadan’s vibrant nightlife of the 70s, he fondly described spots like Nmbari Nmbayo and Oke-Ado, where legends like Adeolu Akinsanya performed, sparking an unforgettable cultural era.
Despite the lure of a stable banking job, Akin-Lewis remained committed to his passion for acting, starring in the comedy Why Worry alongside late Nollywood icon Olumide Bakare. Though he briefly ventured into banking and telecommunications, his love for acting always brought him back.
Reflecting on the Nollywood industry’s growth, Akin-Lewis encouraged fellow veterans to adapt, diversify, and continue evolving. He questioned the idea of a fund for veteran actors, emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility and planning for the future, as many actors faced hardship due to imprudent choices in their prime.
When asked about his lesser-known qualities, Akin-Lewis revealed his spiritual side, sharing that he’s traveled extensively for evangelism. He also explained his aversion to kissing scenes, mindful of his role as a mentor and public figure.
Through his candid conversation on Okebadan, Dr. Akintola Akin-Lewis left an inspiring message on perseverance, humility, and responsible living—values he embodies both on and off screen.
You can watch the full interview via this link https://youtu.be/TP1zUwWjy0Y?si=zOkX0SDm8kF3bTbT
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