Manny Ita –
Veteran Nigerian comic actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, widely known for his iconic portrayal of Papa Ajasco, has officially announced a rebrand, unveiling a new stage name, Bondu Alaska, in a move that has stirred conversation across the entertainment industry.
The announcement was made during a recent media interaction, where the actor explained that the decision to adopt a new identity reflects a fresh phase in his career and personal evolution after decades in the spotlight.
“I have played Papa Ajasco for many years, and I am grateful for the love and recognition it brought me, but it is time to evolve,” he said. “Bondu Alaska represents a new beginning and a broader creative expression beyond the character people are used to.”
Ayoyinka rose to prominence through the long-running television comedy series Papa Ajasco & Company, where his portrayal of the bald-headed, comically indecisive patriarch became a household staple and a defining symbol of Nigerian television comedy.
Industry observers say the rebranding signals an attempt by the veteran performer to redefine his public image and possibly explore roles and ventures outside the comedic archetype that has defined his career for decades.
Reacting to public curiosity about the unusual name, the actor noted that it carries personal significance and reflects a blend of influences that resonate with his current outlook. “It is unique, it is different, and it speaks to where I am now as an artist,” he added.
Fans and colleagues have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the move as a bold reinvention while others remain strongly attached to the legacy identity that made him famous. Nonetheless, the development has reignited interest in his career and contributions to Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
Despite the change, Ayoyinka reassured audiences that his commitment to entertaining Nigerians remains unchanged, emphasizing that the rebrand is not a departure from his roots but an expansion of his creative journey. “I am still the same entertainer at heart, but with a renewed vision,” he said.
The rebranding marks a significant moment for one of Nigeria’s most recognizable comic figures, as Bondu Alaska now seeks to carve a new path while building on the enduring legacy of Papa Ajasco.
