Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has been presented as Oloja of Lagos-elect, describing the role as a solemn call to cultural and communal service
‘A Call to Service’: Jide Kosoko Speaks as He Emerges Oloja of Lagos-Elect
Veteran Nollywood actor and respected Lagos prince, Jide Kosoko, has described his emergence as the Oloja of Lagos-elect as a solemn call to service that carries deep cultural and communal responsibility.
Kosoko, 72, was formally presented as Oloja-elect on January 24 at the palace of the Elereko of Lagos, signalling a significant transition in his public life beyond decades of dominance in Nigeria’s film and theatre space.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, the seasoned actor said he received the development with excitement and humility, noting that the decision of the royal family was well-considered.
He described the position as one that demands dedication to tradition, culture and community service, although he declined to state whether the new role would affect his acting career.
Reacting to the development, Nollywood actor and theatre practitioner Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, congratulated Kosoko, saying the appointment further reinforces the relevance of entertainers as responsible and disciplined members of society.
“Jide is not the only prince in Lagos or in the Kosoko family, but because of his intelligence and respect in the community, he was chosen as Oloja of Lagos,” Amusan said.
Kosoko’s emergence places him among a growing number of Nigerian entertainers who have taken on traditional leadership roles, following the coronation of comedian and actor Okey Bakassi as a monarch in his Imo State community in 2025.
The Oloja of Lagos stool had remained vacant since the death of Chief Adebola Ige in 2017, making Kosoko’s emergence particularly significant within the Lagos traditional institution.
The announcement of his selection was formally made by Mrs Mutiat Ali-Balogun, the Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, who presented him publicly before members of the royal household and invited guests.
During the ceremony, she raised Kosoko’s hand in affirmation as traditional rites and prayers were offered. She was joined by the Deputy Olori Ebi General, Oyindamola Ayepola, who also heads the Meshimo Ruling House.
Kosoko’s elevation is widely seen as a fusion of culture, heritage and modern influence, reflecting the evolving role of traditional institutions in contemporary Nigerian society. Read More
