Renowned Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon has once again demonstrated his admiration for Ghanaian culture, blending his passion for the arts with a genuine embrace of the traditions and lifestyles of Ghana.
In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeekend on September 25, 2025, the award-winning actor surprised fans with his knowledge of Ghana’s local languages and cuisine, affirming the strong cultural ties that connect Nigeria and Ghana.
During the engaging conversation, Okanlawon confidently exchanged greetings in Akan, one of Ghana’s most widely spoken languages. He warmly said Akwaaba (welcome) and Ete sen (how are you), winning the admiration of his Ghanaian audience. The actor did not stop there—he eagerly learned more phrases during the interview, including Obaake, the Ga word for “welcome.” His quick adoption of local expressions revealed not only his curiosity but also his respect for the people and traditions of Ghana.
For Okanlawon, language is more than communication; it is a gateway into the heart of a culture. “When you speak a people’s language, you connect with them beyond borders,” he remarked. This sentiment reflects the growing trend among African celebrities to embrace cross-cultural exchanges, strengthening unity across the continent.
Beyond language, the actor showcased his palate for Ghanaian cuisine, a culinary landscape celebrated for its variety, bold flavors, and cultural significance. With enthusiasm, he listed some of his favorite local dishes, including banku, waakye, fufu, and kenkey. These staples of Ghanaian food culture resonate deeply with both locals and visitors, each carrying its own unique preparation methods and traditions.
- Banku, a fermented mixture of corn and cassava dough, is commonly enjoyed with grilled tilapia and pepper sauce.
- Waakye, a rice-and-beans dish often served with fried plantains, spaghetti, or protein sides, is beloved as a breakfast and lunch option.
- Fufu, pounded cassava and plantain, is often paired with rich soups such as light soup, groundnut soup, or palm nut soup.
- Kenkey, another corn-based delicacy, is eaten with fried fish and spicy pepper sauce.
By highlighting these delicacies, Okanlawon tapped into the essence of Ghanaian identity, where food is not just sustenance but also an expression of heritage and hospitality.
The actor’s love for Ghana is not new. Over the years, Okanlawon has developed a strong professional and personal connection to the country. He has collaborated with Ghanaian filmmakers, participated in cross-border projects, and grown a fan base that eagerly supports his work. His regular visits to Ghana have allowed him to immerse himself in the culture, making him one of the few Nollywood stars to bridge the gap between Nigerian and Ghanaian audiences.
Okanlawon’s cultural appreciation comes at a time when Ghana continues to establish itself as a vibrant hub for African tourism and entertainment. With initiatives such as “Beyond the Return” attracting global attention, the actor’s spotlight on Ghanaian traditions further amplifies the country’s cultural appeal. His recognition of local languages and cuisine doubles as an invitation for tourists, especially Nigerians and Africans in the diaspora, to experience Ghana beyond its popular attractions.
Fans across Ghana and Nigeria have praised Okanlawon for his humility and openness to learning, describing him as an ambassador of African unity. Social media users commended his ability to connect with people at a grassroots level, not just through his acting but also through cultural immersion.
As cross-cultural collaborations continue to define the future of African cinema and entertainment, Deyemi Okanlawon’s embrace of Ghanaian culture stands as an example of how the arts can foster deeper ties between nations. His gesture of speaking the local language and enjoying traditional foods transcends celebrity status—it is a reflection of solidarity, respect, and appreciation.
With his growing bond to Ghana, fans are eager to see how Okanlawon’s cultural journey will influence his future projects and strengthen the ever-evolving relationship between Nollywood and Ghana’s thriving film industry.
