PROFILE: Alhaji Kareem Adepoju(Baba Wande)

By Victor Olubiye

Alhaji Kareem Adepoju (born January 6, 1945), widely known by his stage name Baba Wande, is a veteran Nigerian actor, director, producer, and scriptwriter. He rose to national prominence in 1993 for his iconic role as “Oloye Otun” in the classic Yoruba film Ti Oluwa Ni Ile. However, his career in the performing arts began much earlier—as far back as 1962, during the golden era of Yoruba traveling theatre.

Early Life and Education:

Baba Wande was born into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Adepoju in Nigeria. Public information about his formal education is limited. In interviews, he has candidly shared that he might have pursued a different career path—possibly as a company director—if he had received a formal education.

Career Journey:

Kareem Adepoju’s professional acting journey began with the Duro Ladipo Theatre Group, which he joined in 1963. Prior to that, he trained under the renowned Yoruba dramatist, Chief Oyin Adejobi, and later joined the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group, where he became one of the company’s most celebrated performers.

He starred in many stage and television productions, including:

“Kuye” – a TV adaptation of Adebayo Faleti’s novel, where he played the lead role as the mute boy, Kúyẹ̀.

“Kóòtù Ashipa” – appearing as Lasebikan.

“Èkùrọ́ Ọlọ́ja” – playing the usurper Ayelaagbe (Laagbe).

“Ile Tí A Fi Itọ́ Mọ” – as Mr. Ọtọkiti.

Baba Wande became known for his ability to switch effortlessly between comedic and serious roles. His performances in classic Yoruba epics such as “Ekuro Olaoja,” “Oba Igbalode,” and “Kuye” earned him praise for his emotional range and authenticity.

Contribution to Nollywood:

With a film career spanning over four decades, Baba Wande has featured in over 1,000 movies, including:

Ti Oluwa Ni Ile

Oluweri Magboojo

Arugba

Abeni

Igbekun

Fate of Alakada

Ika Lomo Ejo

Obinrin Ale

Forever Mine

Baba Jide

Quintessence Owner

Ogóji Ojó, and many more.

He has collaborated with leading Nollywood stars including Funke Akindele, Kunle Afolayan, and Moyo Lawal, maintaining relevance across generations.

Baba Wande is also a producer and director. He is well-known for producing Islamic-themed programs such as “Iwa Lesin”, which reflects his personal commitment to Islam.

Vision and Legacy:

One of Baba Wande’s long-term dreams is to establish a film village in Osun State, a dedicated space for film production that can attract professionals from across Nigeria and Africa. He believes such a facility could serve as the “African equivalent of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences”, helping to foster cultural growth and development.

Personal Life:

A devoted Muslim, Alhaji Kareem Adepoju is married to two wives and has several children. He enjoys reading the Holy Qur'an and often infuses his works with moral and spiritual themes.

Awards and Recognition:

He has received various accolades, including an award for his role in promoting the Yoruba language and culture through film and television.

 Did You Know?

Baba Wande has not only entertained audiences but also helped preserve Yoruba heritage through storytelling, making him a beloved cultural icon in Nigerian cinema.