Directing
Tope Adebayo Salami (born December 28, 1981, in Lagos State, Nigeria) is a celebrated Nollywood filmmaker, director, actor, and creative entrepreneur. Raised in a family deeply embedded in the Nigerian film industry and guided by his legendary father, Adebayo Salami ("Oga Bello"), Tope naturally gravitated toward storytelling from a young age. He honed his craft in Yoruba-language cinema, building a solid foundation as both actor and production designer before emerging as a visionary film director.
He made his mark directing the fan-favourite comedy Alakada, but it was the cultural epic King of Thieves (Agẹṣinkólé) in 2022 that propelled him to new heights, earning critical acclaim and box-office success while setting a renewed standard for historical Yoruba films. His directorial talents also shine in the stylish action film Kesari (2018), the captivating limited Netflix drama series Seven Doors (2024), and the emotionally rich campus drama Crossroads (2024). Throughout, his storytelling prowess consistently elevates Nollywood’s cultural narratives, seamlessly blending modern cinematic technique with authentic Nigerian themes.
Tope’s artistic range is further highlighted by his roles in productions like King of Thieves, Kinni Igbeyawo (2020), and Késárí: The King (2023). His versatility across acting, directing, and producing underscores his dedication to raising Nollywood’s storytelling bar.
Popular in | Nollywood |
Also known as | Wede Waheed |
Popular as | Directing |
Gender | MALE |
Birthday | December 28, 1981 (43 years old) |
Year | Movie & Role |
---|---|
2025 | Ori Rebirth as Directing |
2025 | Her Excellency as Directing |
2025 | Abánisétè: The Ancestor as Directing |
2024 | Joint Venture as Directing |
2023 | Jagun Jagun as Directing |
2023 | Kesari as Directing |
2023 | Kesari as Writing |
2022 | King Of Thieves as Directing |
2022 | Inside Life as Directing |