In a bold move to bolster Nigeria’s creative sector, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has donated a brand-new 18-seater Toyota bus and millions of naira to the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).
The donation was made during the Ogun Annual Theatre Fiesta, Lecture, and Award Presentation held in Ilaro, Ogun State, where Senator Yayi was also decorated as the Grand Patron of TAMPAN in the state.
Otunba Bolaji Amusan, TAMPAN’s Global President, popularly known as Mr. Latin, praised the senator for his consistent philanthropic acts and commitment to grassroots development, describing him as a “transparent lawmaker and compassionate leader.” He was joined by veteran actors and TAMPAN Board of Trustees members, Adebayo Salami and Dele Odule, in presenting the honour.
“This award is not just ceremonial,” Amusan said. “It recognizes a man who has transformed the face of politics in Ogun State. If we had a hundred of Senator Yayi, Nigeria would be a better place.”
Amusan urged other lawmakers to emulate Senator Yayi by delivering tangible dividends of democracy to their constituencies. He also called for Yayi’s support in pushing for stiffer penalties against piracy and provision of financial grants for local filmmakers.
In his response, Senator Yayi reaffirmed his commitment to community development and expressed deep appreciation for Yoruba arts and culture. He acknowledged the critical role the entertainment industry plays in national development and promised legislative action to protect intellectual property rights.
“I grew up understanding the value of service to humanity,” he said. “That’s why I will continue to support my people. I love Yoruba movies and our culture, and I recognize how piracy has damaged the industry’s growth. But I can assure you that with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, better days are ahead for Nigerian creatives.”
Yayi’s remarks underscored a broader national push to elevate the arts sector, positioning entertainment not just as culture, but as a viable economic engine deserving of federal support and protection.
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