From her debut on the Nigerian sitcom “I Need To Know” (1997 to 2002), Funke Akindele has undergone a remarkable transformation. Transitioning from a Yoruba Nollywood actress, she’s now a director and executive producer behind Nigeria’s highest-grossing films. Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele was born in August 1977 in Ikorodu-Lagos, situated in southwest Nigeria. She holds the position as the second child among three siblings. Hailing from a family of educated professionals, her late mother was a medical doctor, and her father, now retired, served as a school principal. Akindele completed her OND in Mass Communication at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and further pursued a Law degree at the University of Lagos.
The Start of her Acting Career
Funkẹ Akindele made her acting debut in the film ‘Naked Fire,’ produced by Opa Williams. Simultaneously involved in that project, she caught wind of auditions for the TV series ‘I Need to Know,’ supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Expressing her interest in attending, Funkẹ sought permission from her boss, who encouraged her. Remarkably, she portrayed a teenager convincingly on the show despite being older, earning her the Best Actress in a Leading Role award at the 2009 African Movie Academy Awards.
Funkẹ Akindele ventured into movie production with ‘Jenifa,’ a phenomenal success portraying a local girl navigating city life with endearing broken English. This hit led to the creation of ‘Jenifa’s Diary,’ a captivating TV series that amassed a vast audience both on television and social media, skyrocketing the actress to immense fame. Her role earned her an unprecedented streak of five consecutive Best Actress in a Comedy award at the African Magic Viewers Choice Awards from 2016 to 2022, a record-breaking achievement in the event’s history.
Despite facing challenges in English Nollywood movies, Akindele found her stride in Yoruba Nollywood productions. Her lead role and debut production in ‘Ojo Ketala’ marked a significant milestone. She further shone as a lead actress and director in the acclaimed movie trilogy ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga,’ achieving remarkable success. Akindele continued to produce blockbuster hits like ‘Your Excellency’ and ‘Battle on Bukka Street,’ with the latter two currently reigning as the highest-grossing Nollywood movies of all time, before her current success in “A Tribe Called Judah”.
Funkẹ Akindele’s Achievements, Awards and Endorsements
Funkẹ Akindele stands as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest actresses within the movie industry, boasting an estimated net worth of around 11 million US Dollars as of 2023. Beyond her acting prowess, she serves as the CEO of Scene One Film Production, a testament to her dynamic success.
Her journey encompasses a prolific career, having appeared in over a hundred Nollywood movies, often assuming the role of producer. Akindele’s stellar performances have earned her a remarkable tally of 21 prestigious movie awards since 2009. Among these accolades are five Nigeria Entertainment Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role, the 2009 African Movie Academy Award for Best Actress, two Nigeria Entertainment Awards, two Nollywood Movies Awards, and three Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. She’s also been honored at the NET Honours in both 2021 and 2022.
Akindele’s acclaim extends beyond acting; she’s been the recipient of lucrative endorsement deals with renowned Nigerian brands. Notably, she’s collaborated with Keystone Bank, IrokoTV, WAW Nigeria, Dettol, Kelloggs Nigeria, Molfix diapers, Amen Estate, Maggi, Vitafoam, and Globacom.
8 Funke Akindele Movies You Should Know About
Ayiye Olomo Kan (2009)
In the 2009 movie “Aiye Olomo Kan,” Funke portrays Demilade. A young and pampered university student raised by a single mother. As the only child, she navigates love and relationships. Later, falling for a traditional man with a penchant for women skilled in the kitchen. This role showcased Akindele’s versatility as both an actress and a film producer. Alongside esteemed actors like Richardo Agbor, Ayo Mogaji, and Remi Oshodi, she delivered a compelling performance in this captivating storyline.
Apaadi (2009)
In the 2009 epic “Apaadi,” Funke Akindele assumes the role of the cousin to a promiscuous and domineering crown prince, acted by Femi Adebayo. The movie made a significant impact upon its release, offering a refreshing take in the film landscape. Behind-the-scenes glimpses revealed the meticulous process of constructing the impressive movie set entirely from scratch. Notably, the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) recognized the film with nominations. They include
- Best Film in African Language
- Best Costume
- Best Supporting Actor for Femi Adebayo’s performance.
Agbefo (2006)
In the 2006 movie “Agbefo,” Funke Akindele collaborates with Segun Arinze, Taiwo Hassan, and Ireti Osayemi to create a narrative. Akindele’s character leads a gang that strikes fear into people while evading capture, aided by a potent charm that enables them to vanish without a trace. The film blends action and mystery, showcasing the struggle between law enforcement and the elusive criminals.
Industreet (2017)
In 2017, Akindele produced “Industreet,”. The TV series delves into the entertainment industry and aspiring artists navigating their way into the mainstream. The show, featuring Niniola, Funsho Adeolu, Daddy Freeze, and Linda Ejiofor, intertwines industry experience with street life.
Maami (2011)
“Maami,” released in 2011, stars Funke alongside Wale Ojo, delving into the life of a footballer while delving into themes of maternal love, single parenting, and poverty. Directed by Tunde Kelani, the drama encapsulates heartfelt storytelling and poignant themes.
Funke Akindele’s “Your Excellency” (2019)
Akindele made her directorial debut in the 2019 film “Your Excellency,” which follows the tale of a wealthy businessman and politician fixated on Donald Trump. Alongside directing, she also stars in the movie alongside Falz, Shaffy Bello, Osas Ighodaro, and Alexx Ekubo, creating a satirical and engaging storyline.
Maku (2007)
In the 2007 film “Maku,” the focus centers on a troubled young man named Maku, causing distress within his family due to his troublesome behaviour. Akindele, Femi Branch, and Sola Kosoko feature in this compelling narrative that touches on themes of family dynamics and personal growth.
A tribe Called Judah (2023) by Funke Akindele
The movie ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, was a groundbreaking moment in Nollywood. The film has shattered box office records, becoming the first Nigerian movie to gross 1 billion naira ($1.1 million; £900,000) in local cinemas.
In just three weeks, A Tribe Called Judah achieved this historic milestone, leaving its mark on the industry.
Funke Akindele, the film’s creator and a prominent Nigerian actor, director, and producer, expressed gratitude to her fans.
“Thank you Lord! Thank you Nigeria! Thank you Ghana!”
Funke on Instagram tahnking fans
At 46, Akindele solidifies her position as Nollywood’s highest-grossing director with this groundbreaking success. She has surpassed Hollywood hits in Nigerian theater earnings, including the acclaimed superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. A Tribe Called Judah now holds the top spot in the country’s film history.
FilmOne Entertainment, the film’s distributor, highlighted the achievement’s significance beyond numbers. It attributed it to the potency of storytelling, cultural pride, and Nollywood’s indomitable spirit. Describing the film as a “cultural gem,” the company praised Akindele for etching an unforgettable chapter into Nigerian cinema.
Rave reviews from both critics and audiences have accompanied A Tribe Called Judah, earning it soaring ratings on movie review platforms. Inspired by Akindele’s late mother, the film tells the tale of five brothers. They orchestrated a mall heist amid their mother’s financial struggles, a narrative dedicated to her enduring memory.
Funke Akindele’s Political Career
The 44-year-old actress, widely recognized as “Jenifa” for her portrayal in Jenifa’s Diary, considered leaving her acting career.
She had recently been revealed as the PDP Deputy-Governor candidate in Lagos State, a surprising turn of events for many. This announcement was unexpected, considering her apparent dedication to her acting profession and her limited political background.
During the premiere of her latest project titled “Battle of Buka Streets” in Lagos earlier this month, Funke had expressed her belief that audiences might be growing weary of seeing her on screen and should anticipate the emergence of new faces.
“This is why I supported and spearheaded the project ‘Battle on Buka Street’. It serves as my farewell gesture to my fans and the movie industry as a whole. I am venturing into politics full-time as I firmly believe in my candidacy as the imminent Deputy Governor of Lagos State,” she had announced.
The award-winning actress had expressed that her dedication to the youth, women, and children propelled her to heed the “clarion call.”
Funke Akindele’s PAssion for Youths and Women Empowerment
She elaborated, stating, “I have a deep passion for young people; empowering and nurturing talents is something I deeply value. Providing opportunities for women and supporting children is a cause close to my heart. So, receiving this call feels like an urgent plea. It aligns with what I have been doing on a smaller scale and what I’ve always aspired to do on a larger scale.”
Funke Akindele
She reflected on her observations while driving around, witnessing challenges within the healthcare system and other societal issues. Thus her potential impact if granted an opportunity in governance. This unexpected invitation, she described, felt like a spiritual call, timed perfectly in her belief in a higher power.
However, in a video shared on her official Instagram page on Tuesday, Ms. Akindele emphasized that accepting the position was to contribute towards liberating Lagosians. She would specifically focus on marginalized youth, women, and girls.
She affirmed, “My decision not only involves taking on this substantial responsibility but also committing to work tirelessly alongside Jandor’s fervent desire to realize the full potential of our beloved Lagos State, with its people as the primary and immediate beneficiaries.”
Funke Akindele