Early Life

Alhaji Ganiu Akanni Olayinka Quadri was born on 6 September 1959 in Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria, into a middle-class family, though he is a native of Oro, Kwara State. He completed his primary education at St Catholic School, Idumagbo, before proceeding to Christ High School, Ebute Elefun, Lagos, for his secondary education, which he did not complete before pursuing acting full-time.

Career

Yinka Quadri, also known as Fagbamila, began his acting career in 1976 when he and fellow performer Taiwo Olayinka, along with a group of friends, founded the Afopina Theatre Group after leaving school. Over nearly five decades, he has become one of the most prominent figures in Yoruba cinema, appearing in more than 200 movies and taking on roles as an actor, director and film producer, including serving as Director of OK Films Nigeria Limited.

His accolades include Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2007 Movie Academy Awards, Best Actor in a Leading Role at the 2014 Best of Nollywood Awards, and the City People Movie Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. In 2014, he marked his golden jubilee birthday and 36th year in the industry by launching his autobiography, ‘Yinka Quadri: The Scent of a Legend.’ In 2015, at 55 years old, he enrolled at Olabisi Onabanjo University to further develop his skills in film production. He currently serves as President of the Odunfa Caucus theatre group and has worked alongside virtually every major name in Yoruba cinema, including Muyiwa Ademola, Antar Laniyan, Taiwo Hassan and Odunlade Adekola.

Personal Life

Yinka Quadri is happily married with four children and grandchildren.

With nearly five decades in Yoruba cinema and a legacy spanning acting, directing and mentorship, Yinka Quadri remains one of Nollywood’s most enduring and respected icons.