Jimi Solanke was an iconic Nigerian Actor, Dramatist, Folk Singer, Poet and Playwright.
He was born on July 4, 1942 in Lagos, Nigeria.
He graduated from the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a diploma certificate in drama. After graduation, Solanke moved to the United States, where he created a drama group called The Africa Review, focusing on African Culture.
He established himself in Los Angeles, California, where his storytelling career began.
He was described as a “Master Storyteller” by CNN.
In 1986, he returned to Nigeria with three members of the African Review group to work with the Nigerian Television Authority. His reputation earned him the lead role in most of Ola Balogun’s films.
He was part of the team that made the film – Kongi’s Harvest by Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka.
Jimi Solanke died at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, Nigeria on February 5, 2024, at the age of 81.
Uncle Jimi Solanke as we fondly called him, was the Chaiman of the Technical Advisory Board for WaZoBia+ Centre Canada, founded by Dr. Richie Adewusi.
Before his death, he was working with Nostalgiamedia to record the premiere episode of #globaltalesbymoonlight, a Folklore program for children which he graciously encouraged and worked on as Host, until he sent a message to our founder, Dr. Richie Adewusi, two weeks before his passing, that he was in hospital, and would call upon his discharge…
In his Condolence remarks, Dr. Richie Adewusi has this to say… “my Mentor, my Supporter, …you always told me, Richie if you could think of it, you can get it done…It has been that way, since…Sleep on Warrior, I shall rest #globaltalesbymoonlight in your honor. No one else could fit that role”
We join millions of his friends and fans across the globe to pray for the Solanke family, over his passing.
Funeral arrangements would be as announced by his family.
