Abiri Tobi Folagade Festus, widely known as Folagade Banks or Mama Deola, is a Nigerian skit maker and content creator who has captivated audiences with his unique comedic style.
Known for his relatable portrayal of a typical Yoruba mother through the character “Mama Deola,” Folagade Banks has quickly rose to fame on social media platforms.
His ability to mimic and exaggerate the traits of a Yoruba mother has endeared him to fans across Nigeria, transcending cultural boundaries.
In this biography, we will dive into the life of Folagade Banks, exploring his early life, educational background, career journey, and personal life.
Early Life and Background
Folagade Banks was born on August 29 in Osun State, Nigeria, a region in the southwestern part of Nigeria.
Coming from a Yoruba background, he was raised in a Christian family that deeply valued education and integrity.
His father was an engineer, while his mother was a headmistress, a role that greatly influenced his life and career.
As the youngest child, Folagade shared a close bond with his mother, often accompanying her and observing how she interacted with family and colleagues.
This exposure to his mother’s unique personality would later inspire his famous character, Mama Deola.
From a young age, Folagade dreamed of becoming a doctor, but as he grew older, his interests shifted towards entertainment.
His love for humor and storytelling became evident early on, as he was recognized for his lively personality among friends and classmates.
Educational Background
Folagade Banks began his education at Daysprings International School in Ife, where he spent his formative years.
After completing his primary education, he attended Ambassadors’ College Secondary School, also in Ife.
His jovial nature made him popular, and he even won the “Most Jovial Student” award during his time there.
By the age of 11, Folagade realized his passion lay not in the medical field but in entertainment.
This interest led him to pursue further studies at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), where he majored in geography.
Despite the rigorous nature of the program, he remained committed to his education, graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography.
While at university, he began creating comedic content, a move that would mark the beginning of his journey in the entertainment industry.
His friends encouraged him to share his content online, and he gradually built a following on social media.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Folagade Banks initially started creating skits for fun while in secondary school.
His humorous takes on everyday life earned him a reputation as a natural comedian, and he continued making skits while in university.
It wasn’t until the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 that he truly began to focus on growing his brand.
With ample time on his hands, Folagade dedicated himself to producing content regularly, which helped him gain significant traction on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
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In 2021, he introduced the character “Mama Deola,” a stereotypical Yoruba mother who captures the essence of African parenthood with humor and wit.
The character quickly resonated with audiences due to its relatability, as Mama Deola embodies the cultural quirks and strict demeanor that many Nigerians associate with their mothers.
Regardless of tribe or background, fans from all over Africa found themselves identifying with Mama Deola’s hilarious personality and mannerisms.
However, Folagade’s journey to success was not without its challenges.
In the early days, his videos often lacked engagement, which discouraged him.
Nonetheless, he remained committed, telling himself that even if only a few people watched his content, he would continue creating it.
His perseverance eventually paid off, and he gained a massive following.
Mama Deola Collaborations and Influences
Folagade Banks has worked alongside notable Nigerian celebrities, including actress Adunni Ade, Stephanie Coker, and Victoria Adeyele of Big Brother Naija fame.
These collaborations have further solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s rising stars in comedy and content creation.
His portrayal of Mama Deola was influenced by his mother, who worked as a headmistress and part-time Master of Ceremonies (MC) at various events.
Folagade credits his mother for inspiring his passion for entertainment, as he often watched her captivate audiences with her storytelling abilities.
Notable Achievements and Awards
Folagade’s hard work and dedication were recognized in 2024 when he was nominated for the Future Awards Africa (TFAA) Prize for Content Creation, an award sponsored by Infinix.
This prestigious recognition celebrated his impact on the entertainment industry and his ability to connect with audiences through relatable, humorous content.
Personal Life
Folagade Banks currently resides in Lagos, Nigeria. Folagade is known for being down-to-earth, often expressing gratitude towards his fans and family for their support.
He has a close relationship with his mother, whom he frequently credits as the inspiration behind Mama Deola.
In his personal life, Folagade values authenticity and creativity. He aims to use his platform to spread joy and laughter while also promoting positive cultural values.
Mama Deola Net Worth
While Folagade Bank’s net worth is not officially documented, it is estimated to be between $10,000 and $15,000.
This wealth stems from his earnings as a content creator, brand collaborations, and online endorsements.
As his popularity continues to rise, Folagade’s net worth is expected to increase significantly, especially with potential opportunities in film and television.
Social Media Presence
Folagade Banks has built a strong presence on social media platforms, where he connects with fans and shares content featuring Mama Deola.
His engaging videos, filled with humor and relatable scenarios, have amassed a large following.
- Â Instagram: @folagade_banks
- TikTok: @folagade.banks
Conclusion
Abiri Tobi Folagade Festus, known by many as Folagade Banks or Mama Deola, has quickly risen to fame in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Through his dedication, creativity, and authenticity, he has turned a simple character into a beloved figure.
His story is one of resilience and passion, as he overcame initial challenges to become a respected name in comedy and skit-making.
With a growing following on social media and a nomination for The Future Awards Africa, Folagade Banks has solidified his place in Nigerian entertainment.
As he continues to create and expand his brand, he remains a source of joy, laughter, and cultural pride for his fans.