Veteran Yoruba actress and theatre icon, Chief (Mrs.) Grace Owoola Oyin-Adejobi, popularly known as Iya Osogbo, has been celebrated as she marks her 96th birthday, bringing renewed attention to a career that has spanned several decades of Nigeria’s performing arts.

The milestone offers an opportunity to celebrate one of the notable figures associated with the development and preservation of Yoruba theatre, particularly the travelling theatre tradition that played a major role in taking Yoruba drama and storytelling to audiences across the country.

Born and raised in Osogbo, Osun State, Oyin-Adejobi initially trained as a seamstress before her path changed when she became involved in theatre. Her career became closely connected with that of her late husband, renowned dramatist and actor Oyin Adejobi, with whom she built a lasting presence in Yoruba stage and screen productions.

Her first major stage appearance was reportedly as Eve in Paradise Lost. She later became involved in numerous theatre productions and television programmes, earning recognition for her performances and distinctive presence.

Among the productions associated with her career are Orogun Adedigba, Kootu Asipa, Iya Olobi, Ile Iwosan, Ekuro Oloja and Kuye.

Her popular nickname, Iya Osogbo, became firmly attached to her identity and eventually became the name by which she was widely recognised by audiences.

Throughout her career, Oyin-Adejobi was part of a generation of performers who used theatre not only for entertainment but also as a means of communicating Yoruba language, customs, values and social messages.

The travelling theatre tradition was particularly significant at the time, as theatre groups moved between communities to stage performances for different audiences. For artistes such as Iya Osogbo, this meant years of travelling, performing and helping to keep Yoruba dramatic traditions alive.

Her contribution also extends beyond the roles she personally played. The theatre environment surrounding the Oyin Adejobi tradition served as a platform through which a number of performers were exposed to acting and stagecraft before the growth of modern Nollywood.

At 96, Iya Osogbo’s journey represents a significant chapter in the history of Yoruba entertainment. Her longevity in the industry has allowed her to witness major changes in Nigerian theatre, from travelling stage productions to television and eventually the modern film industry.

Her 96th birthday celebration has therefore become more than a personal milestone. It is also a moment for colleagues, admirers and lovers of Yoruba culture to reflect on the legacy of a woman who devoted much of her life to the performing arts.

As the Nigerian entertainment industry continues to evolve, the story of Iya Osogbo remains a reminder of the artistes and theatre practitioners whose work helped lay the foundation for the Yoruba entertainment industry enjoyed by audiences today.

At 96, Grace Owoola Oyin-Adejobi remains a respected name in Yoruba theatre, with a legacy that continues to connect generations of audiences with the language, stories and cultural traditions of the Yoruba people.