Papa Ajasco appeared as part of a cultural troupe lined up to receive President Tinubu following his return from a state visit to the UK.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Veteran Nigerian comedian Abiodun Ayoyinka, popularly known as Papa Ajasco, was recently spotted with President Bola Tinubu at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
In a video that circulated widely online, the Nollywood actor appeared as part of a cultural troupe lined up to receive the President following his return from a state visit to the United Kingdom.
During the reception, a notable moment occurred when President Tinubu, while heading towards his waiting vehicle, appeared to recognise the comic actor.
The Nigerian leader was seen beckoning to Ayoyinka in a brief but noticeable exchange.
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Speaking during an interview the actor said: “Many people think Papa Ajasco is a millionaire or a billionaire; they only know Papa Ajasco productions. It is only I, Papa Ajasco, who carries the whole thing. Even the President of this country knows me very well. Any time we welcome him at the airport, he will just call me ‘my friend’; we shake hands and go.”
Ayoyinka had earlier opened up about his financial realities despite acquiring fame for his long-running role as Papa Ajasco, a character that became a household name in Nigerian television.
According to him, his earnings over the years have seen only a modest increase.
He further disclosed that his pay rose from ₦22,500 in 1997 to ₦45,000 in recent times, despite decades of contribution to the production.
