It was an emotional evening of glowing tributes, heartfelt testimonies and colourful cultural performances as veteran actors, academics, students and admirers gathered to celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of late legendary thespian and renowned academic, Dr Kola Oyewo, who died recently at 80.

The event, tagged “Night of Honour,” formed part of the burial activities for the revered actor and was held on Thursday at PIT theatre, department of Dramatic Arts, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

The ceremony attracted an array of distinguished personalities from Nigeria’s entertainment and academic communities, including veteran actors Peter Fatomilola and Segun Adefila, actress Joke Muyiwa, Toyin Adegbola, popular actor Muyideen Oladapo, better known as Lala, alongside lecturers, industry stakeholders, students, family members and other dignitaries who converged to pay their final respects to one of Nigeria’s finest theatre icons.

In one of the most touching tributes of the evening, Lala described Oyewo as a great mentor and a God-sent father figure, crediting the late thespian with playing a pivotal role in making his academic dream a reality.

Recounting his encounter with Oyewo when he decided to combine acting with education, Lala said the late academic guided him through every stage of the process, from obtaining the required qualifications to gaining admission into OAU and eventually graduating.

“I approached him when I pursued acting and wanted to pursue my education. He told me I would have to get a second school certificate, write JAMB and pass the cut-off mark for the post-UTME examination of OAU.

“I told him I was ready, and he advised and guided me from the point of my decision until I graduated from the institution. I can never forget his fatherly role in acting and in my academics. He is indeed a rare gem, and I pray God grants him eternal rest,” Lala said.

The tribute underscored the profound influence Oyewo had beyond the stage and screen, particularly his commitment to mentoring younger practitioners and helping them navigate both their artistic and academic pursuits.

One of the evening’s biggest highlights was Lala’s captivating cultural performance, which thrilled the audience with energetic traditional dance, talking drums and rich Yoruba cultural expressions.

His electrifying display perfectly complemented performances by a cultural music troupe, while several stage plays and artistic presentations showcased the profound influence of Oyewo on Nigerian theatre and generations of performers.

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The gathering also provided an opportunity for colleagues and students to reflect on Oyewo’s immense contributions to theatre, film and academia, with speakers highlighting his discipline, mentorship, scholarship and dedication to the development of Nigeria’s creative industry.

Speaking on behalf of the family, the deceased’s son, Dr Wale Oyewo, expressed appreciation to everyone who made time to honour his father and celebrate the legacy he left behind.

Beyond the tributes and performances, organisers unveiled a lasting initiative to preserve the late icon’s legacy through an annual endowment award in his honour.

The award will recognise the Best Acting Student and the Overall Best Student in Dramatic Arts, ensuring that Oyewo’s passion for excellence and commitment to nurturing young talents continue to inspire future generations.