Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as Papa Ajasco, has opened up about the financial challenges he has faced despite decades of fame in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Speaking about his experience in the popular comedy series “Papa Ajasco & Company,” the 65-year-old actor revealed that he earned ₦22,500 per episode in 1997, when he began playing the iconic character. According to him, the payment has only increased to ₦45,000 per episode in 2026, a figure he says has made it difficult for him to achieve financial stability.
Ayoyinka said the situation has been particularly challenging because, despite his long career in the entertainment industry, he does not own a personal house or car.
“I was getting **₦22,500 per episode of Papa Ajasco in 1997. Now in 2026 they pay me ₦45,000. I don’t have a home or car of my own,” he said while speaking about his struggles.
The actor also explained that the “Papa Ajasco” character is officially registered and owned by renowned Nigerian producer Wale Adenuga, the creator of the popular television series. Because of this, Ayoyinka said he cannot independently use the character for endorsements, events, or commercial deals without obtaining permission.
“That particular character has been registered by Wale Adenuga, so I cannot take deals as Papa Ajasco without his permission,” he explained.
The Papa Ajasco & Company comedy series became one of Nigeria’s most popular television shows in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for its humorous storytelling and unique characters, the show gained widespread popularity across the country and helped launch the careers of several actors.
Ayoyinka’s portrayal of the absent-minded and humorous character Papa Ajasco, recognizable by his bald head and round glasses, became a household name and a symbol of Nigerian comedy.
However, the actor’s recent comments have sparked conversations online about the financial welfare of veteran entertainers in Nigeria, particularly those who were active before the growth of modern streaming platforms and larger entertainment budgets.
Many fans and industry observers have expressed sympathy for the actor, noting that several pioneers of Nigerian television and film often struggled financially despite their contributions to the industry.
The discussion has also highlighted broader issues within the entertainment sector, including royalties, intellectual property rights, and long-term financial protection for actors.
Industry experts say that in many cases, actors from earlier generations worked under contracts that did not provide residual payments or long-term financial benefits, unlike the systems used in some international entertainment industries….See More
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