Who is Jimi Solanke?

Jimi Solanke popularly called Uncle Jimi or Baba Agba was a Nigerian actor, poet, playwright, dramatist, and folk singer. The actor and poet was born in Lagos State, Nigeria on July 4, 1942. He died at the age of 81 on February 5, 2024, in Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria. According to reports, he has been in and out of the hospital since December 2023.

Jimi Solanke’s Early Life and Education

Jimi Solanke was born on July 4, 1942, in Lagos State, Nigeria while his roots trace back to Ogun State. The Nigerian actor and poet attended Olowogbowo Methodist School for his early education before proceeding to Odogbolu Grammar School, Ogun State.

He graduated with a diploma certificate in drama from the University of Ibadan. The Nigerian actor died on February 5, 2024, at the age of 81 at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, on February 5, 2024. In 1969, he joined the Department of Dramatic Arts at the University of Ife (Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU).

Jimi Solanke’s Career

Solanke relocated to the United States after graduating from the University of Ibadan. Jimi founded The Africa Review, a drama group dedicated to showcasing African culture.

Embracing Yoruba culture, especially in their performances at black African schools, the group gained recognition. He established himself in Los Angeles, California, marking the beginning of his storytelling career, earning the accolade as a “master storyteller” from CNN.

In 1986, he returned to Nigeria, collaborating with the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA alongside three Africa Review members. His good reputation led to prominent roles in Ola Balogun’s films. This included a notable contribution to the cinematic adaptation of Wole Soyinka’s Kongi’s Harvest.

Jimi composed tracks like Onile Gogoro, Eje ka jo, Jenrokan, and Na Today You Come. Additionally, he’s behind albums such as Eke ka Jo (Let Us Dance). He is also behind In the Beginning, Ase, Storyteller, America Has Got Magic, Orin Orisa, Multiplicity of Praise, Hidden Gold, and Once Upon a Time.

Jimi Solanke’s Personal Life

Jimi Solanke was married to Margaret Solanke and their union lasted for over 40 years being blessed with 4 children. However, he had a divorce from his first wife who had 3 children for him. He has a total of 10 children.

FAQs

When did Jimi Solanke die?

Jimi Solanke passed on at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, on February 5, 2024.

At What age did Jimi Solanke die?

He passed on at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, on February 5, 2024, at the age of 81.

Jimi Solanke is from where?

The actor and poet was born in Lagos State, Nigeria while his roots trace back to Ogun State.

How many children did Jimi Solanke have?

Solanke had 10 children before he passed on.

What is Jimi Solanke’s Net Worth?

The late Nigerian actor and poet’s net worth is estimated at $500,000.

Conclusion

I hope you found this article helpful, you might also be interested in this biography article on Annabel Apara.

Thanks for reading.