Born on September 6, 1959, in the bustling heart of Lagos Island, Alhaji Akanni Olayinka Quadri grew up in a household where discipline and ambition went hand in hand. Though he hails from Oro in Kwara State, most of his formative years were spent navigating the streets and schools of Lagos.
His early education took him through St. Catholic School in Idumagbo, followed by Christ High School in Ebute Elefun. Years later, in a bid to sharpen his skills in filmmaking, he returned to academia and enrolled at Olabisi Onabanjo University in Ogun State.
Entry Into Acting at Seventeen
At just 17 years old, Yinka took a bold step into acting while still working under his father. Without informing his family, he began performing on stage, driven solely by passion and not expecting payment.
This unassuming start in 1976 set the tone for what would become a four-decade-long career. By 1982, the young actor could afford his first car, a milestone that came from his theatre work, not desperation.
Early Theatre Groups
In 1977, he and a few close friends formed Afopina Theatre Group, which later became Isale Oro Theatre Group. Under the guidance of Taiwo Olayinka, they explored music, drama, and stage performance.
Eventually, the group evolved into Adetutu Theatre Organisation, where Yinka emerged as a leader. This platform allowed him to hone his craft, travel for shows—including one in the United States in 1986—and build a name in Yoruba theatre.
Founding Odunfa Caucus
Not one to rest on past achievements, Yinka Quadri co-founded the influential Odunfa Caucus. Situated in Ebute-Meta, Lagos, the group remains one of the most prominent Yoruba theatre art groups in Nigeria.
He currently serves as its president, mentoring upcoming actors and maintaining cultural and artistic excellence in Yoruba storytelling.
Film Debut That Turned Heads
Though already known in stage circles, his television debut in Agbodorogun paved the way for larger roles. One of his first major film appearances was in the 1996 classic, Owo Blow.
Despite playing a minor role, the film’s high budget and successful cast, including Bimbo Akintola and Femi Adebayo, brought Quadri into a wider spotlight.
Box Office Success and Big Screen
Yinka Quadri has participated in some of Nigeria’s highest-grossing productions. He was in the widely popular Jenifa (2008) and its sequel, The Return of Jenifa.
He also appeared in Omo Ghetto and its 2020 sequel Omo Ghetto: The Saga, both major hits in Nollywood. His role in Anikulapo, distributed by Netflix, earned him a 2023 AMVCA nomination.
Roles in Recent Hits
In Anikulapo, he portrayed a hunter whose minor appearance became crucial to the plot. The film quickly became the most-watched non-English movie on Netflix at its release.
He also starred in Gangs of Lagos, portraying Olorugun. The Amazon-distributed film gained traction beyond Nigeria and introduced Quadri to a younger, global audience.
Directing, Producing, and a Naira 20 Million Budget
Yinka is not just a screen presence but also a force behind the camera. One of his most ambitious projects is Ticket to Life, which carried a production budget of over ₦20 million.
As executive producer, he assembled a cast that included Sambasa Nzeribe, Linda Osifo, and Tina Mba. His role in that high-investment project further made him who he is today in Nollywood.
Yinka Quadri Net Worth
With over four decades in the industry, Quadri’s net worth is estimated at around $500,000. While sources vary, figures range from $250,000 to $2 million depending on endorsements, productions, and acting fees.
From earning a few thousand naira per role to starring in high-budget films, he has sustained relevance and income through consistent hard work.
Filmography Highlights
Yinka Quadri has starred in over 100 productions. Some include:
| Olaniyonu |
| Kutupu |
| Kura |
| Ekun |
| Agbodorogun |
| Ojiji |
| Egbinrin Ote |
| Araba |
| Ilari |
| Odun Baku |
| Bolode O’ku |
| Èebúdolá Tèmi |
| Abeni |
| Apaadi |
| Ojo Idajo |
| Abulesowo |
| Niwoyi Ola |
| Ilekun Olorun |
| Okinni |
| The Return of Jenifa (2011) |
| Arinzo (2013) |
| Owo Blow |
| 77 Bullets (2019) |
| Shola Arikusa |
| Gangs of Lagos |
| Move Like a Boss (2024 film) |
He’s featured in Yoruba films across various decades, some of which make it into lists like top 10 Yoruba movies.
Recognition and Awards
- In 2007, Yinka Quadri was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 3rd Africa Movie Academy Awards.
- He earned a nomination for Best Indigenous Actor in a Lead Role (Yoruba) at the 2010 Best of Nollywood Awards.
- In 2012, he was nominated at the Nollywood Movies Awards for Best Actor in an Indigenous Movie (Non-English Language).
- The 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards also saw him nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Yoruba film.
- He received another nomination in 2014 for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Yoruba) at the Best of Nollywood Awards.
- In 2023, he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Endorsement Deals and Political Support
In 2016, Quadri became an ambassador for Al-Amanat Islamic Estate. His face added credibility to the real estate brand, expanding his income sources.
He has also been vocal in political circles, publicly endorsing candidates like Bola Tinubu. While not all endorsements are confirmed as paid, celebrities often receive compensation for such support.
Marriage and Family Life
Yinka Quadri has maintained a long-lasting marriage with Alhaja Sadiat Adenike Quadri since 1989. Their union has lasted more than three decades, a rare feat in the entertainment industry.
Together, they have four children: Muyiwa, Yewande, Olajuwon, and Folarin. There are claims from his son that he fathered more children, possibly up to nine.
Children Who Followed His Footsteps
Muyiwa Quadri, one of Yinka’s sons, has also stepped into the acting world. They both featured in the film May 27.
Muyiwa holds a diploma in Business Administration and is married with a child. His other children include Yewande, who reportedly got married in 2022, and has three children herself.
Personal Life and Controversies
While generally respected, Yinka was briefly caught in a spat with fellow actor Dele Odule in 2012. The issue stemmed from comments made about actress Bisi Komolafe, which eventually drew Quadri into the conversation.
Though heated at the time, the issue appears resolved. Years later, Dele Odule posted a throwback photo with Yinka, suggesting the tension had long cooled.
The Man Behind the Agba Akin Title
Beyond entertainment, Quadri holds the traditional title of Agba Akin of Oro Kingdom in Kwara State. This honor ties his public image to cultural heritage.
It signifies not only his roots but also the respect he commands in his community. He continues to carry the title with the dignity it requires.
Article updated 4 weeks ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
