Discover the inspiring life of Kola Olootu, veteran Yoruba broadcaster, filmmaker & Mogaji of Ibadan. Full biography, career highlights & cultural impact.

When I first encountered Kola Olootu’s voice on the airwaves decades ago, it was unlike anything I’d heard before—a deep, resonant timbre that commanded attention while weaving stories that transported listeners into the heart of Yoruba culture. Chief Dhikrulaah Adekola Olootu, professionally known as Kola Olootu, is not merely a broadcaster; he is a cultural custodian, a master storyteller, and one of the most influential voices in Nigerian media history.

Born on November 16, 1943, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Kola Olootu has spent over four decades shaping the landscape of Yoruba-language broadcasting. As a veteran radio presenter, television producer, filmmaker, and traditional leader, he has earned numerous honorific titles including Baasooro of Yorubaland and Mogaji of Ile Adesun. At 82 years old, Olootu remains an active force in Nigerian entertainment, seamlessly adapting to digital platforms while maintaining his authentic connection to traditional Yoruba storytelling.

His signature programmes—Oselenkejo and Ale Ere be—have become household names across southwestern Nigeria, where his distinctive voice and encyclopedic knowledge of Yoruba proverbs continue to educate and entertain millions. Beyond broadcasting, Olootu has made significant contributions to Nollywood as a writer and producer, creating films that explore Yoruba cultural themes and moral values.

Key Details About Kola Olootu At a Glance

Early Life and Background: Roots in Ibadan’s Cultural Heartland

Chief Dhikrulaah Adekola Olootu was born into a traditional Muslim family in the historic Oje area of Ibadan, within the Ogo Compound—a neighborhood steeped in Yoruba cultural traditions. His father, Alhaji Salau Olootu, was a respected textile trader in Ibadan’s bustling markets, known for his integrity and business acumen. His mother, Alhaja Ramota Olootu, was a devoted homemaker and community figure who instilled in young Kola the values of discipline, cultural pride, and respect for elders.

The name “Dhikrulaah” is of Arabic origin, meaning “remembrance of Allah,” reflecting his family’s Islamic faith and the deep religious consciousness that would later inform his moral approach to broadcasting. Growing up in Ibadan during the 1940s and 1950s, Kola witnessed the city’s transformation as a major broadcasting hub in Nigeria. Ibadan holds the distinction of being the first city to air a radio broadcast in Nigeria, making it the natural birthplace for someone destined to become a broadcasting legend.

The Oje community where Olootu spent his formative years was a melting pot of Yoruba culture—a place where griots told ancient stories, where proverbs flowed like water in everyday conversation, and where respect for tradition coexisted with the modernizing influences of colonial Nigeria. This rich cultural environment became the foundation for Olootu’s exceptional command of Yoruba language, his deep understanding of folklore, and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.

As a young boy, Olootu was known for his curiosity and his ability to memorize complex oral histories and proverbs. He would often sit at the feet of community elders, absorbing their wisdom and learning the art of storytelling—a skill that would define his career. The bustling markets of Ibadan, where his father conducted business, also provided young Kola with early lessons in communication, persuasion, and understanding human nature.

Education and Academic Journey: Building a Foundation

While specific details about Kola Olootu’s formal education remain largely private, what is clear is that his true education came from two sources: the traditional Yoruba oral education system and his immersion in the broadcasting profession during its golden age in Nigeria.

Like many children of his generation in southwestern Nigeria, Olootu likely attended Islamic schools (madrasah) where he learned Arabic and Islamic studies, alongside Western-style education. This dual educational background—traditional Islamic learning combined with modern schooling—gave him a unique perspective that would later enrich his broadcasting content.

His real academy, however, was the broadcasting industry itself. Beginning his professional journey in the early 1970s, Olootu learned from the pioneers of Nigerian broadcasting—veterans who had established the standards for cultural and educational programming. At the Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (WNBS) in Ibadan, he underwent what amounted to an apprenticeship in the craft of radio presentation, learning microphone techniques, programme structuring, scriptwriting, and the art of engaging diverse audiences.

What distinguished Olootu from many of his contemporaries was his commitment to continuous learning. He studied Yoruba oral literature, collected proverbs and folktales, and maintained relationships with traditional historians and cultural custodians. This dedication to knowledge acquisition transformed him from merely a broadcaster into a cultural scholar who happened to use radio as his medium.

His education was also practical and street-smart. Working in various media houses throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he learned the business side of broadcasting, developed his signature style, and built the networks that would sustain his long career. Every programme he produced became a classroom where he refined his understanding of what resonates with audiences.

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Career Journey and Major Achievements: Five Decades of Excellence

The Early Years: Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (1970s)

Kola Olootu’s broadcasting career began in earnest during the early 1970s at the Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (WNBS) in Ibadan. This was a pivotal period in Nigerian broadcasting history, as indigenous language programming was gaining prominence and radio was the primary medium for reaching the masses.

At WNBS, Olootu developed his skills as a presenter and producer of cultural and educational programmes. His deep, resonant voice—which would become his trademark—immediately set him apart. But it wasn’t just the voice; it was his exceptional command of Yoruba proverbs (owe), his knowledge of folklore (alo), and his ability to blend entertainment with moral instruction that quickly made him a household name.

During this period, Olootu created programmes that blended traditional storytelling with contemporary issues. He understood that his role wasn’t merely to entertain but to preserve culture, educate the masses, and serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity. This philosophy would guide his entire career.

The BCOS Era: Building a Reputation (1985 onwards)

In 1985, Kola Olootu officially started his professional broadcasting career as a freelancer at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS) Ile-Akede, Orita-Bashorun, Ibadan. This marked the beginning of his rise to legendary status. At BCOS, he refined his craft and developed a distinctive on-air personality characterized by confidence, humor, and cultural authenticity.

His programmes during this era became must-listen radio, drawing audiences from across southwestern Nigeria. He became known for his “overly boastful” style—not arrogance, but a performance of confidence rooted in Yoruba oriki (praise poetry) tradition. His facility for “highfalutin words” wasn’t showing off; it was a demonstration of mastery over the Yoruba language that audiences found both entertaining and educational.

Nigerian Television Authority: Expanding to Visual Media (1980s)

Not content to remain solely in radio, Olootu joined the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Ibadan in the 1980s, where he created and anchored Agbala Eto (The Court of Rights), a groundbreaking live call-in programme. This show represented innovation in Nigerian broadcasting, allowing viewers to call in and discuss legal rights, social issues, and community concerns.

Agbala Eto demonstrated Olootu’s versatility and his ability to handle complex, sometimes controversial subjects with wisdom and fairness. The programme addressed issues affecting everyday Nigerians—land disputes, family conflicts, rights violations—giving voice to the voiceless and providing a public forum for justice and accountability.

Fresh FM and the Oselenkejo Phenomenon

One of the most significant chapters in Olootu’s career was his time at Fresh FM, the popular Ibadan radio station owned by gospel musician and broadcaster Yinka Ayefele. At Fresh FM, Olootu hosted Oselenkejo, a programme that became legendary for its engaging content, audience participation, and Olootu’s masterful storytelling.

Oselenkejo (which translates to “Come and listen to this case”) was more than a radio show; it was a cultural event. Every broadcast drew massive audiences who tuned in to hear Olootu discuss real-life stories, moral dilemmas, relationship issues, and cultural topics. His ability to dissect complex human situations with wisdom, humor, and Yoruba proverbs made the programme compulsory listening.

However, in 2017, Olootu’s relationship with Fresh FM ended amid undisclosed tensions between him and Yinka Ayefele. For years, the two broadcasting giants were not on speaking terms, a rift that saddened many fans who respected both men. It wasn’t until May 2023 that they publicly reconciled at Ayefele’s Music House in Ibadan, a moment that delighted the broadcasting community. Ayefele apologized for how he handled their disagreement and invited Olootu to return to the station.

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Lagelu FM: Continued Relevance

Following his departure from Fresh FM, Olootu found a new home at Lagelu FM 96.7, where he continues to host Oselenkejo every Wednesday from 10 AM to 12 noon, and Ale Ere be on Sundays. These programmes maintain his connection with loyal audiences and demonstrate his enduring relevance in contemporary Nigerian media.

At Lagelu FM, Olootu has proven that quality content and authentic cultural connection transcend station politics. His programmes continue to attract massive followings, and his studio lines light up with callers eager to share their stories or seek his wisdom on various matters.

Digital Revolution: Embracing New Platforms (2019-Present)

What truly distinguishes Kola Olootu from many veteran broadcasters is his successful adaptation to digital media. In May 2019, he joined Twitter (now X), and subsequently established strong presences on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. His TikTok account (@kolaolootulive) has garnered over 750,000 followers, while his Instagram boasts 165,000 followers.

On these platforms, Olootu shares story time sessions, cultural insights, wealth-building advice, and discussions on Yoruba values. His content appeals to both older fans who remember his radio days and younger audiences discovering him for the first time. Videos of his storytelling sessions often go viral, with viewers praising his entertaining delivery and timeless wisdom.

This digital success demonstrates that authentic content and masterful storytelling are ageless. While many traditional broadcasters struggled to find relevance in the social media age, Olootu has thrived by remaining true to his strengths while adapting to new formats.

Film Career: Contributions to Nollywood

Beyond broadcasting, Kola Olootu has made significant contributions to the Yoruba film industry as a writer, producer, and occasional actor. His production company, Kola Olootu Productions, has been behind several notable Yoruba films that explore cultural themes, moral values, and traditional storytelling.

Notable Film Productions

Ago kan oru (2003): This remains one of Olootu’s most recognized film works. The title translates to “Midnight Clock” or “One O’Clock at Night,” and the film featured prominent Nollywood actors including Ernest Asuzu, Gentle Jack, Olu Jacobs, and Kayode Olaiya. Directed by Yomi Ogunmola, the film showcased Olootu’s writing skills and his ability to create compelling narratives rooted in Yoruba cultural contexts.

Rubicon (2022): Nearly two decades after Ago kan oru, Olootu returned to film production with Rubicon, demonstrating his continued relevance and creative vision in the evolving Nollywood landscape. The film reflected more contemporary themes while maintaining cultural authenticity.

Orí Rebirth (2025): Currently in production or recently released, Orí Rebirth represents Olootu’s latest film project. The title references “Ori” (head/destiny in Yoruba cosmology), suggesting a film that explores themes of fate, destiny, and spiritual rebirth—concepts central to Yoruba philosophy.

Other Productions: According to various sources, Olootu has also produced films including Olongbo dudu (Black Civet Cat) and Ọmọ Elepa (Child of the Groundnut Seller), though detailed information about these productions remains limited.

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Impact on Yoruba Cinema

Olootu’s approach to filmmaking mirrors his broadcasting philosophy: entertainment must serve cultural preservation and moral instruction. His films typically feature:

• Strong moral messages rooted in Yoruba values
• Authentic use of Yoruba language, proverbs, and idioms
• Storylines that address contemporary issues through cultural lenses
• Collaborations with established Nollywood talent
• Production values that respect both tradition and modern cinematic standards

While Olootu may not be as prolific a filmmaker as some of his contemporaries, his contributions have been meaningful, particularly in maintaining quality standards in Yoruba language films.

Personal Life and Family: The Private Side of a Public Figure

Despite his very public career, Kola Olootu has managed to maintain relative privacy regarding his personal life. However, certain details have emerged over the years that paint a picture of his family life and values.

Marriage and Spouse

Kola Olootu is married to Alhaja Nike Yahaya, a prominent socialite in Ibadan society. The couple has been together for many years and are frequently seen at social events across southwestern Nigeria. Alhaja Nike Yahaya comes from a respected family and is known in Ibadan social circles for her community involvement and cultural activities.

Their marriage appears to exemplify traditional Yoruba values of partnership, mutual respect, and shared commitment to family and community. Unlike many contemporary celebrities, the Olootus have maintained a relatively low-profile personal life, choosing to let Kola’s professional achievements speak for themselves.

Children and Family Life

Kola Olootu has multiple children, including at least one set of twins. This was dramatically revealed in 2020 when he reported a harrowing incident to the authorities: his twin children had been kidnapped at gunpoint from his Ibadan home shortly after he left for a recording session. The incident highlighted both the challenges faced by public figures in Nigeria and the deep concern Olootu has for his family’s safety.

Beyond this incident, Olootu has kept details about his children—their names, ages, professions, and current locations—largely private. This discretion reflects traditional Yoruba values around protecting family privacy and avoiding unnecessary public exposure of one’s children.

Values and Philosophy

Those who know Olootu personally describe him as humble, disciplined, and deeply religious. His Islamic faith informs his worldview and his approach to both professional and personal life. He is known for emphasizing:

• Prudent financial management: Often sharing wealth-building advice in his broadcasts and podcasts
• Cultural preservation: Actively working to ensure Yoruba language and traditions are passed to future generations
• Community responsibility: Using his platform to address social issues and support community development
• Family values: Emphasizing the importance of strong family structures and proper upbringing of children
• Respect for tradition: Balancing modernity with deep respect for Yoruba customs and traditional authority

Awards, Honors, and Traditional Titles

Throughout his illustrious career, Kola Olootu has received numerous honors and traditional titles recognizing his contributions to broadcasting, culture, and community development.

Traditional Titles and Honors

Professional Recognition

While specific broadcasting awards remain undocumented in available sources, Olootu’s recognition comes primarily through:

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• Audience loyalty spanning five decades: The most authentic measure of his impact
• Influence on younger broadcasters: Many current Yoruba presenters cite him as inspiration
• Cultural preservation awards: From various Yoruba cultural organizations
• Community honors: From Ibadan-based groups and associations

The installation as Mogaji of Ile Adesun represents perhaps his most significant honor. This position is not merely ceremonial—it places Olootu within the traditional governance structure of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s largest and most culturally significant cities. As Mogaji, he serves as the family head and representative in traditional council matters, a role that carries both privilege and responsibility.

The timing of his installation—on his 77th birthday in 2020—added special significance to the occasion, combining personal celebration with public recognition of his contributions to Ibadan society.

Contributions to Society and Cultural Legacy

I’ve often reflected on what makes certain broadcasters transcend their medium to become cultural icons. In Kola Olootu’s case, it’s his unwavering commitment to using his platform for cultural preservation, education, and community upliftment.

Cultural Preservation and Language Advocacy

Perhaps Olootu’s greatest contribution lies in his role as a preserver and promoter of Yoruba language and culture. In an era of increasing globalization and English-language dominance, he has consistently demonstrated that Yoruba language broadcasting can be sophisticated, entertaining, and commercially viable.

Through his programmes, he has:

• Preserved thousands of Yoruba proverbs (owe) and folk tales (alo) that might otherwise have been lost
• Demonstrated the richness and expressive power of the Yoruba language
• Educated younger generations about traditional customs, values, and history
• Shown that one can be modern and globally aware while remaining rooted in cultural identity
• Created a template for quality indigenous language broadcasting

Mentorship and Industry Development

While not always formally documented, Olootu has influenced countless younger broadcasters through both direct mentorship and by setting professional standards. Many current Yoruba radio and television presenters openly acknowledge studying his techniques, learning from his programme structures, and drawing inspiration from his longevity and adaptability.

His successful transition to digital platforms has particularly inspired veteran broadcasters, showing them that adaptation and continued relevance are possible regardless of age or traditional medium.

Community Development and Social Commentary

Throughout his career, Olootu has used his platform to address pressing social issues:

• Relationship and family matters: Offering wisdom on marriage, parenting, and family dynamics
• Financial literacy: Sharing advice on wealth creation, savings, and prudent money management
• Conflict resolution: Using his programmes as forums for addressing disputes and promoting understanding
• Youth guidance: Counseling younger generations on values, education, and life choices
• Cultural pride: Encouraging Yoruba people to take pride in their heritage while engaging with modernity

The Saheed Osupa Coronation: A Controversial Legacy

In August 2023, Olootu sparked significant controversy when he publicly claimed responsibility for orchestrating the circumstances that led to the late Fuji maestro Sikiru Ayinde Barrister crowning Saheed Osupa as “King of Fuji Music” in 2008. According to Olootu’s account, shared in a viral TikTok video, he and Osupa planned the coronation at his house in Oluyole, Ibadan, before Barrister arrived for Osupa’s birthday show.

Olootu claimed he told Osupa to arrange for a crown beforehand, then maneuvered the episode so that Barrister would agree to crown him. He alleged that when asked if Osupa was a good musician worthy of being crowned King of Fuji, Barrister gave a passing response, not knowing a crown had already been prepared. When presented with the crown, Barrister was reportedly “taken aback” and exclaimed that they had “put him in trouble.”

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Olootu further vented that despite Osupa’s subsequent success and wealth following this coronation, the musician has not adequately acknowledged or compensated him for his role. This revelation strained Olootu’s relationships with other Fuji musicians and raised questions about the authenticity of Osupa’s claim to the “King of Fuji” title.

Saheed Osupa responded cryptically with a music snippet, and the matter highlighted both Olootu’s influence in Yoruba entertainment circles and the complex politics underlying the Fuji music industry. Whether one views Olootu’s actions as shrewd advocacy for a talented artist or as manipulative interference, the incident underscores his significant behind-the-scenes role in shaping Yoruba entertainment.

Controversies and Challenges: Navigating a Public Life

Like any public figure with a five-decade career, Kola Olootu has faced his share of controversies and challenges.

The Yinka Ayefele Rift (2017-2023)

The most publicized controversy in Olootu’s recent career was his prolonged disagreement with fellow broadcaster and Fresh FM owner Yinka Ayefele. Beginning around 2017, the two broadcasting giants parted ways professionally and were not on speaking terms for approximately six years.

The specific details of their disagreement were never publicly disclosed—both men maintained discretion and maturity throughout the rift—but it clearly affected both parties and saddened fans who admired both broadcasters. The fact that it took six years to resolve suggests the depth of the hurt or disagreement involved.

Their May 2023 reconciliation, facilitated by younger broadcaster Waheed Akintayo (known as ‘Ilumoka presenter’), was heartwarming for the broadcasting community. Ayefele publicly apologized for how he handled the crisis and invited Olootu to return to Music House, potentially presenting on Fresh FM’s sister station, Tiwa n’Tiwa FM. Olootu described the misunderstanding as one between brothers that had been resolved without involving third parties, emphasizing his respect for Ayefele as a good man and responsible broadcaster.

This reconciliation demonstrated both men’s maturity and commitment to the greater good of Yoruba broadcasting over personal grievances.

The 2020 Kidnapping Incident

Perhaps the most traumatic challenge Olootu has faced publicly was the 2020 kidnapping of his twin children. The incident occurred at gunpoint at his Ibadan home, shortly after he had left for a recording session. While details about the resolution of this incident remain sparse, it highlighted the security challenges facing prominent Nigerians and the vulnerability that comes with public life.

The incident temporarily thrust Olootu’s normally private family life into public discourse and likely affected his sense of security and peace of mind. That he continued his broadcasting work despite this trauma speaks to his professionalism and resilience.

The Saheed Osupa Controversy (2023)

As discussed earlier, Olootu’s August 2023 claims about orchestrating Saheed Osupa’s coronation as King of Fuji Music created significant controversy. His public complaint that Osupa had not adequately shown gratitude or provided compensation for this pivotal career assistance led to:

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• Strained relationships with multiple Fuji musicians
• Questions about his motivations for making these claims public after 15 years
• Debates about the authenticity of Osupa’s title
• Discussions about gratitude, loyalty, and reciprocity in professional relationships

While some supported Olootu’s right to share his story and sympathy for feeling unappreciated, others questioned whether publicly airing such grievances was appropriate, particularly given the potential damage to Osupa’s legacy.

Navigating Age and Relevance

Like many veteran broadcasters, Olootu has faced the challenge of remaining relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape. However, unlike many of his contemporaries who struggled with this transition, Olootu has successfully adapted by:

• Embracing social media and digital platforms
• Maintaining content quality while adapting formats
• Connecting with younger audiences without abandoning his core identity
• Demonstrating that age brings wisdom and perspective that younger presenters cannot replicate

Net Worth and Financial Overview

Kola Olootu’s financial standing reflects a comfortable but modest lifestyle built over five decades of consistent work in broadcasting and entertainment.

Estimated Net Worth

Based on publicly available information, Kola Olootu’s net worth is estimated at approximately ₦500 million (roughly $300,000 USD at current exchange rates). This figure, while substantial in Nigerian terms, is relatively modest compared to some contemporary entertainment figures—a reflection of Olootu’s focus on cultural work over commercial pursuits and the generally lower compensation for indigenous language broadcasting compared to English-language media or popular music.

Income Sources and Streams

Financial Philosophy

Those familiar with Olootu’s content note that he frequently shares financial wisdom in his broadcasts and podcasts. His financial philosophy emphasizes:

• Prudent savings: Advocating for consistent saving habits rather than ostentatious spending
• Community investments: Investing in projects that benefit his Ibadan community
• Long-term thinking: Building sustainable income sources rather than chasing short-term gains
• Cultural investments: Supporting cultural preservation even when not immediately profitable
• Family security: Ensuring his family’s long-term financial well-being

This approach reflects traditional Yoruba values of prudence, community responsibility, and building lasting legacies rather than accumulating flashy wealth.

His relatively modest net worth compared to some entertainment figures is also a testament to his integrity—he has never been implicated in financial scandals or accusations of using his platform for illegal enrichment, a notable achievement in Nigerian media.

Influence, Impact, and Enduring Legacy

As I reflect on Kola Olootu’s career spanning more than five decades, what strikes me most is not just his longevity but his consistency in maintaining quality and cultural authenticity.

Impact on Broadcasting Standards

Olootu helped establish and maintain high standards for Yoruba-language broadcasting:

• Language mastery: Demonstrating that indigenous language broadcasting can be sophisticated and eloquent
• Research-based content: Showing that entertainment can be grounded in cultural research and historical accuracy
• Audience engagement: Pioneering interactive formats that gave voice to ordinary people
• Cultural responsibility: Using broadcasting as a tool for education and cultural preservation, not just entertainment

Influence on Contemporary Media

His successful adaptation to digital platforms has influenced how veteran broadcasters approach new media:

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• Proving that quality content transcends platform
• Showing that authentic cultural content can thrive on social media
• Demonstrating that age need not be a barrier to digital relevance
• Creating a template for traditional media figures to build digital audiences

Cultural Preservation Legacy

Perhaps his greatest legacy will be the thousands of hours of recorded content preserving:

• Yoruba proverbs and their proper usage
• Folk tales and traditional stories
• Cultural practices and their meanings
• Historical knowledge that might otherwise be lost
• Proper use of Yoruba language in formal settings

This archive—scattered across decades of radio broadcasts, television programmes, and now digital content—represents an invaluable resource for future generations studying Yoruba culture.

Personal Inspiration

On a personal note, what I find most inspiring about Kola Olootu is his demonstration that one can achieve greatness by remaining authentically oneself. He never tried to sound “modern” or Western; he never compromised his cultural identity to chase broader appeal. Instead, he deepened his mastery of his craft and trusted that excellence would find its audience. In an era of homogenization and cultural dilution, his career stands as proof that the deepest universality comes from the most authentic particularity.

Interesting Facts and Lesser-Known Details

• The Name’s Meaning: “Dhikrulaah” means “remembrance of Allah” in Arabic, reflecting his family’s Islamic devotion
• Broadcasting Birthplace: Born in Ibadan, the first city in Nigeria to air a radio broadcast
• Voice Recognition: His deep, resonant voice is so distinctive that many Yoruba people can identify him within seconds of hearing him speak
• Proverb Master: Estimated to know thousands of Yoruba proverbs and their proper contextual applications
• Nickname Origin: “Omo Adabanija” is his oriki (praise name), connecting him to his ancestral lineage
• Digital Pioneer Among Veterans: One of the first veteran Yoruba broadcasters to successfully build a massive social media following (750K+ on TikTok)
• Mogaji Succession: His installation as Mogaji places him in the traditional succession line for the Olubadan throne, though his current age makes actual succession unlikely
• Multi-Platform Success: Active and successful on at least five platforms simultaneously: radio, television, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram
• Producer Title: Often referred to as “the runaway moviemaker” in his early career for his film production ambitions
• Lagelu FM Loyalty: Despite offers from other stations, he has remained with Lagelu FM since leaving Fresh FM
• Wealth Advisor Role: His podcast and digital content increasingly focus on wealth creation advice for Yoruba people
• Cultural Custodian: Informally serves as a cultural consultant for younger artists and filmmakers seeking authentic Yoruba cultural representation

Conclusion: A Living Legend’s Timeless Impact

As Kola Olootu celebrates over five decades in broadcasting, his story offers profound lessons about authenticity, cultural pride, and the power of mastery. In an age when many chase viral fame and quick success, Olootu’s career demonstrates the enduring value of depth over breadth, quality over quantity, and cultural rootedness over shallow cosmopolitanism.

What makes Chief Dhikrulaah Adekola Olootu’s story remarkable isn’t just his success—it’s the resilience and adaptability behind it. From the analog days of radio broadcasting in the 1970s to today’s digital landscape where his TikTok videos reach hundreds of thousands, he has continuously evolved without losing his essence. At 82 years old, he remains actively engaged, still broadcasting weekly, still creating content, still teaching, still preserving culture.

His journey from the Oje area of Ibadan to becoming Baasooro of Yorubaland and Mogaji of Ile Adesun encapsulates the Yoruba ideal of “ọmọlúàbí”—a person of good character who contributes meaningfully to society. He has used his voice—literally and figuratively—to educate millions, preserve invaluable cultural knowledge, mentor younger generations, and demonstrate that indigenous language and culture can thrive in the modern world.

For young broadcasters and content creators, Olootu’s career offers a masterclass in building lasting relevance: master your craft, stay authentic to your cultural identity, treat your audience with respect, continuously adapt to new platforms while maintaining quality, and understand that true influence is measured in decades, not viral moments.

For those of us who grew up listening to his programmes, Kola Olootu represents more than entertainment—he represents a connection to our roots, a preservation of wisdom that might otherwise be lost, and proof that one can be thoroughly modern while remaining deeply traditional.

As he continues his work on Lagelu FM and across digital platforms, Chief Kola Olootu remains not just a broadcaster but a cultural institution—a living library of Yoruba wisdom, a bridge between generations, and a testament to the enduring power of authentic storytelling.

His legacy will outlive him, preserved in countless hours of recordings, in the broadcasters he inspired, in the culture he helped preserve, and in the millions of lives he touched with his voice, his wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to excellence.

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The voice of Kola Olootu may one day fall silent, but the echoes of his contributions to Yoruba culture will resonate for generations to come. That is the mark of a true legend.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Kola Olootu?

Kola Olootu (Chief Dhikrulaah Adekola Olootu) is a veteran Nigerian broadcaster, filmmaker, and cultural preservationist with over 50 years in Yoruba-language media. He is renowned for his signature programmes Oselenkejo and Ale Ere be, and holds the traditional titles of Baasooro of Yorubaland and Mogaji of Ile Adesun.

2. What is Kola Olootu known for?

Olootu is known for his masterful Yoruba storytelling, his deep resonant voice, his encyclopedic knowledge of Yoruba proverbs and culture, and his successful programmes on various radio and television stations across southwestern Nigeria. He’s also recognized for his film production work and his successful adaptation to digital platforms.

3. How much is Kola Olootu worth?

His net worth is estimated at approximately ₦500 million (about $300,000 USD), accumulated through decades of broadcasting work, film production, digital content creation, and speaking engagements. His wealth reflects modest but comfortable living focused on cultural work rather than commercial pursuits.

4. Is Kola Olootu married?

Yes, Kola Olootu is married to Alhaja Nike Yahaya, a prominent Ibadan socialite. The couple has been together for many years and has multiple children, including twins. They maintain a relatively private family life despite his public career.

5. What are Kola Olootu’s biggest achievements?

His biggest achievements include over 50 years of influential broadcasting, creating iconic programmes like Oselenkejo and Agbala Eto, producing notable films such as Ago kan oru, receiving traditional titles including Baasooro of Yorubaland and Mogaji of Ile Adesun, and successfully building a massive digital following (750K+ TikTok followers) while preserving Yoruba culture for future generations.

For corrections, updates, or additional information about Kola Olootu, readers are encouraged to contact us through appropriate channels with verifiable documentation.

Last Updated: November 2025