Actor Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, has said he made a conscious decision to invest in his children rather than focus on acquiring properties.

The 73-year-old disclosed this in an interview, explaining that while many of his peers were building houses and accumulating wealth, he was more interested in laying a solid foundation for his children.

“I invested in my children instead of building houses. That is the reason I’m not as wealthy as some of my mates. I’m content with my life because I know I have done what’s most important,” he said.

Oga Bello, who has 18 children including actor Femi Adebayo, noted that he deliberately focused on giving his children quality education and values. According to him, he didn’t allow his fame to dictate how he raised them.

“I ensured they were well-trained. Even when I didn’t have much, I made sacrifices to give them good education. I believe that training a child is better than building houses,” he added.

The movie star stressed that his success as a father is evident in how well his children are doing.

“When people commend my children for being well-behaved or successful, it gives me more joy than owning 10 houses. My son Femi is doing very well, and so are the others. That is my pride.”

Speaking further, Oga Bello explained why he didn’t push any of his children into acting early, despite being a celebrated figure in the industry.

“I didn’t allow any of them to join me in acting without education. Even Femi, I insisted he finished school first. I told them, ‘If you fail in education, don’t come to me about acting.’”

On the state of the movie industry, the actor said things have changed drastically since he began his career with the Young Concert Party in 1964, which later became the Awada Kerikeri Organisation.

“When we started, acting was purely about passion. We weren’t paid much, but we loved what we were doing. Now, it’s a different game. There’s money, but also less discipline.”

Reflecting on life at 73, Oga Bello said he is fulfilled and has no regrets.

“I may not be a billionaire, but I have peace of mind. I see my children succeeding, and that’s the greatest blessing. Some of my mates have buildings in every corner, but many can’t say the same about their children.”