“Before Nollywood Fame, I Ran A Bakery In Lagos” – Actor Muyideen ‘Lala’ Oladapo Reveals

According to Ireporter Online, popular Nigerian actor and filmmaker Muyideen Oladapo, fondly known as Lala, has revealed that he owned a bakery business long before attaining fame in Nollywood. The talented thespian, who has featured in the entertainment industry for over two decades, shared this and more insights about his life, education, and career in a recent conversation.

Lala, who earned his first degree from Obafemi Awolowo University and later bagged a Master’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos, disclosed that he is now pursuing a PhD. Despite his celebrity status, he continues to prioritize personal growth and education.

Speaking about how he manages to balance work and academics, the actor said his success is driven by passion and determination, values instilled in him by his father. “My father always told me that my fortune lies in my palm,” he said, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and consistency.

Addressing speculations that he once worked in a bank, Lala clarified that he only collaborated with a real estate company as a brand ambassador, producing skits for them. He noted that a viral video of him dressed as a banker had been misunderstood, prompting false claims about a career switch.

In a surprising revelation, the actor confirmed that he had established a bakery in Surulere, Lagos, as far back as 1996, before gaining prominence in Nollywood. The business, known as Kososi Bread, continues to thrive, with a second branch recently opened in Shomolu. “Kososi was my nickname, and many of my colleagues still call me by that name,” he said proudly.

Discussing his extensive experience in both film and stage productions, the actor explained that while both art forms share similarities, stage acting is more demanding due to its live nature. He noted that errors in stage performances cannot be edited like in film productions, adding that the discipline required for stage work shaped his professionalism.

Oladapo, who began his acting journey under the mentorship of the late Dagunro Alakija, credited formal education for refining his craft. According to him, returning to school helped him understand the theoretical aspects of performance and the different genres of storytelling. He revealed that his earlier works unknowingly incorporated elements of satire, which he only came to recognize after studying Theatre Arts.

Speaking on the origin of his name, the actor said Kososi was given to him by a family friend, Alhaji Dauda Kososi, who was known for treating various ailments. His popular nickname, Lala, emerged from a movie role he played in Funke Akindele’s film Ekuro. He recalled that the role was almost given to someone else, but Funke insisted he should play it—a decision that became a turning point in his career.

Lala expressed gratitude for the journey so far, stating that challenges have been his greatest motivators. “I love facing challenges because they push me to grow,” he remarked. “If you don’t face challenges, you remain stagnant.”