Akbar Gbajabiamila’s parents, Mustapha and Bolatito Gbajabiamila, were Nigerian immigrants whose lives deeply influenced the former NFL player and current television host’s journey. Their story is defined by the immigrant experience in Los Angeles, a commitment to rigorous cultural values, a tragic family loss, and a long-standing battle with Parkinson’s disease that transformed Akbar into a dedicated advocate for health and neurological research.
The Nigerian Heritage and Immigration to America
To understand the parents of Akbar Gbajabiamila, one must first look at the cultural landscape of Nigeria in the mid-20th century. Mustapha and Bolatito were born and raised in Nigeria, belonging to the Yoruba ethnic group, one of the largest and most culturally influential groups in West Africa. Their decision to move to the United States in the 1970s was driven by the "American Dream"—the pursuit of higher education and better economic opportunities for their future children.
Settling in the Crenshaw district of South Central Los Angeles, the Gbajabiamilas worked to maintain a balance between their West African roots and their new American reality. For Mustapha and Bolatito, this meant raising their children with a strict emphasis on discipline, respect for elders, and academic achievement. In many interviews, Akbar has noted that his household was "very Nigerian," characterized by traditional foods, the Yoruba language, and an expectation of excellence that did not initially include professional sports.
The transition was not without challenges. Moving from Nigeria to South Central Los Angeles in the 1970s and 80s meant navigating a complex socio-economic environment. However, the Gbajabiamila household remained a sanctuary of traditional values, where the parents prioritized stability and community connection over the distractions of the surrounding neighborhood.
Mustapha Gbajabiamila: The Patriarch and His Health Journey
Mustapha Gbajabiamila served as the traditional head of the household, a man of quiet strength and professional ambition. He worked as a technician and was the primary provider for his large family, which included seven children. His influence on Akbar and his brother, former Green Bay Packers star Kabeer Gbajabiamila, was rooted in a work ethic that demanded "doing the job right the first time."
The Parkinson’s Diagnosis
The most defining chapter of Mustapha’s life, and consequently Akbar’s adult life, began in the late 1990s. Mustapha was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. At the time of the diagnosis, the family had limited knowledge of the disease, and for a long period, Mustapha chose to keep the diagnosis private, reflecting a cultural tendency toward stoicism.
As the disease progressed, the physical toll on Mustapha became undeniable. The tremors, muscle rigidity, and eventual loss of motor control shifted the family dynamic. Akbar, who was then ascending in his football career and later transitioning into broadcasting, became a primary caregiver and a public face for Parkinson’s awareness. Mustapha’s battle with the disease lasted decades, providing Akbar with a firsthand look at the deficiencies in the healthcare system regarding neurological care for minority communities.
Impact on Akbar’s Advocacy
Because of his father's condition, Akbar Gbajabiamila has spent much of the last two decades (leading up to 2026) working closely with organizations like the Michael J. Fox Foundation. He has used his platform on American Ninja Warrior and The Talk to highlight the importance of early detection and the need for more diverse clinical trials in Parkinson’s research. Mustapha’s resilience in the face of a degenerative condition remains a central theme in Akbar’s motivational speaking and public appearances.
Bolatito Gbajabiamila: A Legacy Cut Short
Bolatito Gbajabiamila was the emotional anchor of the family. Known for her warmth, deep religious faith, and unwavering support for her children, she was the primary reason Akbar and his siblings felt connected to their Nigerian identity. While Mustapha provided the discipline, Bolatito provided the nurturing environment that allowed her children to thrive in a competitive environment like Los Angeles.
The Tragic 2002 Accident
The family suffered a devastating blow in 2002. Bolatito was killed in a car accident, a tragedy that occurred just as Akbar’s professional football career was beginning. He was an undrafted free agent attempting to make the roster of the Oakland Raiders when he received the news.
The loss of his mother was a pivotal moment in Akbar’s life. He has often spoken about how her death forced him to grow up instantly and how he carried her memory onto the football field. Bolatito did not live to see the full extent of Akbar’s success in broadcasting or his brother Kabeer’s legendary status with the Packers, yet her influence is cited by both brothers as the foundation of their character.
Spiritual Influence
Bolatito was a devout woman whose faith was central to her parenting. The Gbajabiamila family was originally raised in a Muslim household, reflecting Mustapha’s background. However, Bolatito’s spiritual journey and the family's eventual transition toward Christianity (which Akbar later embraced) were significant parts of their domestic life. Her emphasis on prayer and "having a heart for others" is a trait Akbar frequently mentions when discussing his philanthropic efforts.
Comparison of Parental Influence and Background
The following table summarizes the key distinctions and roles of Mustapha and Bolatito Gbajabiamila within the family structure.
| Feature | Mustapha Gbajabiamila | Bolatito Gbajabiamila |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Lagos, Nigeria | Nigeria (Yoruba Heritage) |
| Primary Role | Provider, Disciplinarian | Nurturer, Spiritual Guide |
| Professional Life | Technician/Technical Field | Homemaker/Community Leader |
| Key Life Challenge | Parkinson's Disease (Diagnosed late 90s) | Fatal car accident (2002) |
| Main Legacy | Work ethic and health advocacy | Cultural identity and spiritual foundation |
| Influence on Akbar | Focus on persistence and resilience | Focus on empathy and communication |
Raising NFL Athletes in a Nigerian Household
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mustapha and Bolatito’s parenting was their initial skepticism toward sports. In many traditional Nigerian immigrant families, the "Big Three" career paths are medicine, law, or engineering. Professional sports were seen as a distraction from education.
Akbar often recounts how his parents did not fully understand the magnitude of American football when he and Kabeer first started playing. They viewed it as a hobby rather than a viable career. However, once they realized their sons’ talents and the opportunities the sport provided—including college scholarships—they became their biggest supporters.
The success of both Akbar and Kabeer in the NFL is a testament to the "Gbajabiamila Way":
- Strict Discipline: No shortcuts in training or academics.
- Cultural Grounding: Remembering their roots prevented them from being swayed by the trappings of early fame.
- Family Unity: Even as their parents faced illness and tragedy, the siblings remained a tight-knit unit, a direct result of the family-first environment Mustapha and Bolatito created.
Religious Dynamics and Cultural Identity
The Gbajabiamila household was a melting pot of religious and cultural transitions. Mustapha was a Sunni Muslim, and "Gbajabiamila" itself is a name associated with the Yoruba Muslim community in Lagos (roughly translating to "the big man who saves the children").
As the children grew up in the United States, the family navigated a complex religious path. While they were raised with Islamic traditions, Bolatito's influence and the children's own experiences led many in the family to explore and eventually convert to Christianity. This shift did not cause a rift, which is a credit to Mustapha's and Bolatito’s focus on the core values of faith and morality over rigid dogma.
Akbar has reflected on this by noting that his upbringing gave him a unique perspective on both religions, allowing him to connect with a wider audience in his media career. He credits his parents for teaching him that faith is about how you treat people, regardless of the specific label of the religion.
The Impact of Los Angeles on the Gbajabiamila Family
While their hearts were in Nigeria, their lives were built in Los Angeles. The city played a major role in the family’s identity. Living in South Central during the 80s and 90s meant Mustapha and Bolatito had to be hyper-vigilant. They steered their children toward the park and the schoolyard to avoid the gang culture that was prevalent at the time.
The parents’ ability to shield their children from the negative aspects of their environment while encouraging them to embrace the opportunities of the city is a classic success story of the Nigerian diaspora. It is this "L.A. toughness" combined with "Nigerian discipline" that Akbar credits for his ability to handle the high-pressure environments of the NFL and live television.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of the name Gbajabiamila?
The name is of Yoruba origin. It is often translated to mean "the big man who saves the children" or "the one who intervenes to save the child." It is a prestigious name within the Yoruba community in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos.
How did Akbar’s father, Mustapha, handle his Parkinson's diagnosis?
Mustapha initially kept his diagnosis private, which is common in many cultures where illness is viewed as a private family matter. However, as the symptoms became more pronounced, he and the family became more open. This journey led Akbar to become a major advocate for Parkinson's awareness, focusing on how the disease affects the Black community differently in terms of diagnosis and care access.
When did Akbar Gbajabiamila lose his mother?
Bolatito Gbajabiamila passed away in 2002 due to a car accident. This occurred during a critical period in Akbar's life as he was making his transition from college football at San Diego State to the NFL.
Are Akbar’s parents still alive in 2026?
As of 2026, Mustapha Gbajabiamila has spent over 25 years living with Parkinson's disease. His journey remains a central part of Akbar's life and public advocacy. Bolatito Gbajabiamila passed away in 2002.
What was the religious background of the Gbajabiamila family?
The family was originally Muslim, as Mustapha was a Sunni Muslim. Over time, particularly through the influence of the American cultural environment and Bolatito's spiritual journey, many members of the family, including Akbar, transitioned to Christianity. Akbar often speaks about the influence of both faiths on his life.
How many siblings does Akbar have?
Akbar is one of seven children. His most famous sibling is Kabeer Gbajabiamila, who was a standout defensive end for the Green Bay Packers and is a member of the Packers Hall of Fame.
Final Recommendations for Further Reading
For those interested in the deeper nuances of the Gbajabiamila family story, Akbar’s book, Everyone Can Be a Ninja, provides an excellent look into how his parents' lessons on resilience applied to both the American Ninja Warrior course and his personal life. Additionally, following the updates from the Michael J. Fox Foundation can provide context on the Parkinson's advocacy work inspired by Mustapha Gbajabiamila. Understanding this family history offers more than just a biographical look at a celebrity; it provides a roadmap for how immigrant values and family support can overcome systemic challenges and personal tragedy.
