Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon has celebrated his deepening bond with Ghana by proudly embracing local languages and traditional dishes, underscoring the cultural exchange between the two West African nations.
Speaking in an interview with GhanaWeekend on 25 September 2025, Okanlawon surprised audiences with his knowledge of everyday Akan greetings. The actor cheerfully said “Akwaaba” (welcome) and “Ete sen” (how are you), before adding the Ga phrase “Obaake,” also meaning welcome, which he learned during the conversation.
“I feel at home here whenever I visit,” he said, smiling as he tried out the phrases. His effort to connect through language, though lighthearted, carried weight with Ghanaian fans who value their linguistic heritage.
The celebrated Nollywood star went further to share his love for Ghana’s food culture, pointing out a range of favourites. “Banku, waakye, fufu, kenkey — I enjoy them all,” he said, adding that local meals have become an integral part of his visits to Accra and beyond.
Beyond his taste for food and language, Okanlawon’s cultural openness reflects a longer relationship with Ghana’s creative industry. Over the years, he has featured in collaborative projects with Ghanaian filmmakers, steadily building a loyal fan base. His recent remarks, however, stand out as a rare glimpse into how Ghana has personally shaped him.
Observers note that the actor’s enthusiasm demonstrates the soft power of Ghanaian culture, which continues to travel across borders through film, music, and hospitality. Okanlawon’s public embrace of both language and food adds to this narrative, offering a reminder of how culture binds the region together.
By sharing his experiences, the actor not only celebrated Ghana but also reinforced the growing cultural ties between Nigerians and Ghanaians — two nations whose art, film, and music are increasingly intertwined.
