Hafiz Oyetoro

Hafiz Oyetoro (born August 20, 1963) is a Nigerian actor, comedian, academic, and telecommunication ambassador. Widely known by his stage name "Saka," he is one of Nigeria's most recognized comic actors, celebrated for his distinctive portrayal of humorous, often timid, characters in both Yoruba and English-language films, as well as on television and stage. Early Life and Education Hafiz Oyetoro was born in Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria. His commitment to education led him to acquire significant academic qualifications. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre Arts from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Theatre Arts from the University of Ibadan, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Performance Studies from the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti. His scholarly background runs parallel to his acting career, cementing his status as a respected figure in both entertainment and academia. Career Progression and Notable Works Oyetoro began his career primarily in academia as a lecturer in the Department of Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University. He later moved to the Department of Theatre Arts at the Lagos State University (LASU), where he currently serves. His transition into mainstream media saw him gaining significant visibility through various Nollywood films and television productions. He rose to national prominence for his role as the lead character in the MTN "Saka" advertisement campaigns, which ran for several years. This commercial success led to him being affectionately nicknamed "Saka." His comic persona, often characterized by his signature spectacles and exaggerated mannerisms, resonated deeply with the Nigerian audience. Major Achievements and Recognition Beyond his successful acting career in Nollywood, Oyetoro's major professional achievement is his sustained career in academia, where he has mentored numerous students in theatre and dramatic arts. A significant highlight of his public career was his endorsement deal with MTN Nigeria, which elevated him to one of the highest-paid celebrity endorsers in the country at the time. In 2013, he famously switched his ambassadorial allegiance to Glo (Globacom), a move that generated substantial media attention and further demonstrated his commercial value. His comedic performances have earned him several awards and nominations within the Nigerian film industry. Current Status Hafiz Oyetoro remains active in both the educational and entertainment sectors. He continues to lecture at Lagos State University (LASU) and takes on selected acting roles in film and television. He also maintains an influential presence as a brand influencer and public speaker. His work is recognized for bridging the gap between comedy, academic rigor, and social commentary.