Veteran Nollywood actress Esther Kalejaye marked a significant milestone on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, as she celebrated her 50th birthday amid an outpouring of warm tributes from colleagues and fans across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The respected performer, widely known for her contributions to Yoruba cinema and affectionately nicknamed “Ewa na Beans” by fans, commemorated the occasion by sharing a series of elegant photos on her Instagram page alongside a reflective message expressing profound gratitude for her life journey.
“Happy 50th birthday to me. As I celebrate my birthday, I am grateful for the gift of life and all the blessings that have come my way,” Kalejaye wrote in her heartfelt post. Today, I honour the journey I’ve been on and the journey yet to come, feeling very blessed and thankful for God allowing me to get this far! May this milestone bring me joy and fulfil all my dreams.
The actress, who is married to fellow Nollywood star Afeez Eniola, used the occasion to offer prayers for her future, expressing hopes that her new decade would usher in “more laughter, joy, happiness, good health, long life and success than ever before.
Her birthday announcement quickly transformed into a virtual industry celebration as prominent colleagues flooded her comment section with congratulatory messages and well-wishes, demonstrating the high regard in which she is held within Nigeria’s creative community.
Popular comedian and actor Woli Agba Ajewole led the tributes with a blessing for longevity, writing “May your years be long. Happy birthday mama.” Meanwhile, actress Olayinka Solomon described Kalejaye as a “woman with the heart of gold,” highlighting the birthday celebrant’s reputation for kindness and generosity among peers.
Fellow actress Seyi Edun remarked on Kalejaye’s graceful aging, commenting “Happy birthday, mama. 50 looks so good and beautiful on you, ma”—a sentiment echoed by many fans who expressed amazement at the actress’s youthful appearance despite reaching the half-century mark.
Entertainment industry analyst Funmi Adewale notes that Kalejaye’s milestone celebration holds particular significance within Nollywood. Reaching 50 years in the Nigerian entertainment industry represents not just personal achievement but professional endurance. Esther has navigated the notoriously challenging terrain of Nollywood for decades while maintaining relevance and respect—no small feat in an industry known for its rapid evolution and intense competition.
Kalejaye’s career spans multiple eras of Nigerian cinema, having begun acting during the transition from traditional theatrical productions to home videos in the 1990s. She has since appeared in dozens of films, often portraying matriarchal characters that showcase her versatility and emotional depth as a performer.
Actress Kemi Korede referenced Kalejaye’s nickname in her birthday message, writing “Happy birthday, Ewa na beans, many more blessings years ahead.” The moniker, derived from a popular Nigerian dish of beans served with fried plantain, originated from one of Kalejaye’s breakthrough roles and has since become an affectionate identifier among fans.
Mistura Asuramu expressed surprise at Kalejaye reaching the milestone, commenting “Wow, Ewa na Beans. Happy birthday to u, sis. Stay blessed,” while veteran actress Foluke Daramola added spiritual blessings: “Happy birthday dearest. More grace in Jesus name.
Cultural commentator Dr. Oluwaseun Bankole observes that 50th birthday celebrations carry particular weight in Nigerian society. Reaching ‘the 50th floor,’ as it’s colloquially known, is considered a major achievement worthy of significant celebration. It represents entry into the realm of eldership and wisdom—especially meaningful in a society where age traditionally confers respect and authority.
For female performers in particular, reaching this milestone while maintaining an active career represents a notable achievement in an industry often criticized for sidelining actresses as they age. Kalejaye’s continued relevance and celebrated status stand as testament to her talent and adaptability throughout changing industry trends.
Fellow performers note that Kalejaye’s journey reflects broader evolutionary patterns within Nigeria’s film industry. Having navigated the transition from the early days of Nollywood to the current era of increased production values and digital distribution, her career spans crucial developmental phases of what has become Africa’s largest film industry.
Film historian Joshua Adejumo contextualizes Kalejaye’s achievement within industry demographics: “While Nollywood continues attracting young talent, the presence of respected veterans like Esther provides essential continuity and mentorship. The enthusiastic industry response to her milestone birthday demonstrates the important role such figures play in maintaining cultural cohesion within Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
The celebration comes during a period of significant transformation for Nollywood, as production companies increasingly pursue international distribution partnerships and streaming platform opportunities. Veterans like Kalejaye represent valuable links to the industry’s foundational storytelling traditions even as younger performers explore new narrative directions.
As Kalejaye celebrates this significant personal milestone, her birthday also serves as a reminder of Nollywood’s own maturation as a global cultural force. From humble beginnings in the 1990s to its current status as one of the world’s most prolific film industries, Nigerian cinema has evolved alongside performers like Kalejaye who have dedicated decades to the craft.
While Sunday marked Kalejaye’s day of honor, she joins several other Nollywood veterans who have celebrated or will celebrate their 50th birthdays this year, representing a generation of pioneers who helped establish Nigeria’s distinctive cinematic voice on the world stage.
