Veteran comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has revealed that playing the iconic role of Papa Ajasco has not brought him the financial success many fans might assume.
In a recent interview with podcaster Lucky Udu, the actor disclosed that his earnings from the long-running sitcom have remained modest, despite portraying the character for nearly three decades.
According to Ayoyinka, he is paid ₦45,000 per episode, with the production team typically recording about 13 episodes, which can sometimes take up to a year or even two years to complete.
“They pay me ₦45,000 per episode. We record up to 13 episodes, and the production can stretch over one or two years,” he said.
The actor also explained that the Papa Ajasco character is legally owned and registered by Wale Adenuga, the creator and producer of the show. Because of this copyright, Ayoyinka cannot freely use the character for commercial appearances, endorsements, or advertisements without permission.
“That character has been registered by Wale Adenuga. Anyone who wants to use me as Papa Ajasco must get permission first. That’s why you hardly see me in adverts or on billboards,” he explained.
He noted that the copyright restriction has limited the opportunities he can benefit from, despite the character’s popularity across Nigeria.
During the interview, Ayoyinka also spoke about his current financial struggles. The actor revealed that he previously worked with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture and retired from the civil service about five years ago.
Since retiring, he said life has not been easy.
“I retired five years ago, and things have not been easy. I don’t have a car or a house of my own,” he admitted.
Ayoyinka added that playing the role of Papa Ajasco is now his main source of income.
The revelation has surprised many fans of the sitcom, which became hugely popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. During its peak, millions of Nigerians tuned in weekly to watch the humorous adventures of Papa Ajasco and his colourful co-stars, including the flamboyant character Boy Alinco.
The series was one of the flagship productions of Wale Adenuga Productions, the company behind other well-known Nigerian television shows such as Super Story and This Life.
Ayoyinka’s story also reflects a broader pattern seen among some veteran Nigerian actors who have faced financial difficulties in later years. In 2024, Nollywood stars Amaechi Muonagor and John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, appealed to the public for financial support during serious health challenges before their passing.
More recently, actress Halima Abubakar also made a public appeal for financial assistance to undergo urgent medical treatment.
