Veteran Nollywood actor Afeez Oyetoro, popularly known by his stage name Saka, has recalled the modest beginnings of his professional relationship with actor and producer Femi Adebayo. Speaking in a recent interview, Oyetoro disclosed that his first payment from Adebayo was the sum of N30,000.
The veteran actor, who has been a mainstay in the Yoruba movie sector for decades, explained that the amount was reflective of the industry's pay structure at the time. However, he noted that the landscape has since changed dramatically.
"When I first worked with Femi Adebayo, I was paid N30,000," Oyetoro said. "Today, his payments have grown into millions. It shows how the industry has evolved and how much value producers are now placing on talent."
Oyetoro's revelation comes amid ongoing conversations about remuneration in the Nigerian film industry. While some actors have continued to demand better pay, others have embraced the new revenue models driven by streaming platforms, brand endorsements, and increased production budgets.
Femi Adebayo, who is also a producer and filmmaker, has in recent years been at the forefront of producing high-budget movies that rival those of his contemporaries. His growth as a producer has been mirrored by the increasing fees paid to actors who feature in his productions.
The veteran actor's comments also highlight the mentorship and career growth dynamics within the industry. Many upcoming actors look up to established figures like Oyetoro and Adebayo as benchmarks for success. The relationship between the two, he said, has been one of mutual respect and professional growth.
"It's not just about the money," Oyetoro added. "It's about the journey. Working with Femi has been a learning experience, and seeing how he has built his brand from the ground up is inspiring."
Industry analysts say the story reflects a broader trend in Nollywood, where actors' pay checks have risen significantly over the past few years, driven by increased demand for content, higher production values, and the entry of new revenue streams.
As Nollywood continues to grow both locally and internationally, stories like Oyetoro's serve as a reminder of how far the industry has come—and how much further it can go.
The interview has sparked reactions on social media, with many fans praising Oyetoro for his humility and noting the impressive growth story shared by the veteran comic actor.