Funke Akindele, often fondly referred to as “Jenifa,” is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actresses and filmmakers. Her journey in the entertainment industry has been one of remarkable growth, resilience, and innovation. From her early days on television to becoming a dominant force in Nollywood, Funke’s story is one of dedication and passion.
What sets Funke Akindele apart is not just her on-screen charisma but her astute business acumen and passion for filmmaking. As the creative mind behind some of Nollywood’s highest-grossing films, she has transformed from the beloved “Jenifa” into one of Africa’s most bankable filmmakers. Her evolution from actress to an industry titan is a story of embracing innovation and redefining what it means to succeed in Nollywood.
Every project she touches turns into a cultural phenomenon, making her a true trailblazer in African cinema.
Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making
Born on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Funke Akindele began her career in the mid-1990s, making her mark in the popular United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) sponsored TV series I Need to Know (1998-2002). This educational series aimed at promoting sexual health awareness among Nigerian youth, and Funke played the role of Bisi, a curious and intelligent teenager.
The show was a success, and Funke’s performance as Bisi endeared her to many viewers, laying the foundation for her future career.
Rising to Prominence: The Jenifa Phenomenon
Funke’s breakthrough came with the 2008 movie Jenifa, a comedy-drama that she both wrote and starred in. Jenifa tells the story of a village girl with big dreams who relocates to the city in pursuit of higher education, only to face challenges that reshape her life. The film’s success was unprecedented, earning Funke widespread acclaim and leading to a sequel, Jenifa 2, and eventually the hugely popular TV series Jenifa’s Diary (2015- present).
Jenifa not only cemented her status as a leading actress but also showcased her talent as a writer and producer.
Expanding Horizons: Directing and Producing
Building on her success with Jenifa, Funke Akindele began to explore other facets of filmmaking. She transitioned from acting to directing and producing, becoming a multi-talented powerhouse in the industry. Some of her notable works include Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020), a sequel to her earlier hit Omo Ghetto, which became the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time.
Other works include Your Excellency (2019), Battle on Buka Street (2022), and She Must Be Obeyed (2023), each of which showcases her versatility and ability to tell diverse stories.
Not Just an Actress: Funke as a Writer and Director
Funke Akindele‘s skills go beyond acting. She has written and directed several films and TV series, further establishing her as a creative force. Her writing credits include A Tribe Called Judah (2023), Battle on Buka Street (2022), and Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020). These works highlight her ability to create compelling narratives that resonate with a wide audience.
As a director, she has also helmed projects like A Tribe Called Judah (2023), She Must Be Obeyed (2023), and Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020). Each of these projects has been well-received, further proving her mettle behind the camera.
A Producer with a Vision
In addition to writing and directing, Funke Akindele has also made a significant impact as a producer. Her first production company, SceneOne Productions, which she co-founded with her estranged husband, Abdulrasheed Bello (JJC Skillz), has been behind several successful projects.
The production house brought to life iconic projects like Jenifa’s Diary, which solidified Akindele’s status as a household name in Nollywood; including Aiyetoro Town (2019), and Industreet (2017). She also produced films like The Return of Jenifa (2011), and Omo Ghetto (2010) under this same company name.
SceneOne Productions was pivotal in her early success. Through SceneOne Productions, Funke provided opportunities for upcoming talents, further contributing to the growth of Nollywood.
However, the dissolution of her marriage in 2022 led to significant disruptions at SceneOne Productions. The company’s operations were temporarily halted, affecting the online airing of Jenifa’s Diary and leaving many subscribers dissatisfied. The shift to another platform without resolving issues with existing subscribers sparked controversy, and for a while, it seemed like the challenges might overshadow her contributions to the industry.
Despite those setbacks, Akindele has proven her resilience. In 2023, she launched the Funke (Ayotunde) Akindele Network (FAAN). Through FAAN, Akindele aims to redefine filmmaking and production in Nigeria, embracing a holistic approach that includes not only film production but also public relations and media strategy. FAAN has already produced notable projects, including Battle on Buka Street (2022), and A Tribe Called Judah (2023).
Funke Akindele’s resilience and vision have paid off remarkably. And she has been breaking her streaks. According to a report from the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR), she dominated the Nigerian box office for three consecutive years. Omo Ghetto the Saga, released in 2020, grossed ₦636 million, followed by Battle on Buka Street, which grossed ₦668 million in 2022.
Her latest win, A Tribe Called Judah, released in December 2023, broke the record for the highest-grossing Nollywood film ever, with a staggering ₦780 million at the box office. The film also set a new benchmark, earning over ₦113 million in its first opening weekend.
Acting Career: A Diverse Portfolio
While Funke has expanded her horizons, she has never strayed far from her roots as an actress. Over the years, she has appeared in a wide range of films and TV series. Her roles have ranged from comedic to dramatic, and she has proven time and again that she can handle any character with ease.
Some of her most memorable performances include roles in Maami (2011), where she played the titular role of a mother, Chief Daddy (2018), Moms at War (2018), and Far From Home (2022). Her recent performances in A Tribe Called Judah (2023), No Way Through (2023), and House of Ga’a (2024) further demonstrate her ability to evolve and adapt to new character spectrums in the industry.
Awards and Recognition
Funke Akindele, one of Nigeria’s most prominent actresses and filmmakers, has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the Nollywood industry.
Some of her notable accolades include:
- Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA): Funke Akindele holds the record for the most wins at the AMVCA, a testament to her exceptional contributions to television and film. She has won awards in categories such as Best Actress in a Comedy.
- Special Achievement Award (2023): At the Silverbird Man of the Year Awards, she was honored with a Special Achievement Award, recognizing her significant impact on the Nigerian entertainment industry.
- Hollywood Reporter’s List of 40 Most Powerful Women in International Film (2024): Funke was recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the most powerful women in international film, celebrating her influence in bringing African stories to a global audience.
- Africa International Film Festival (2023): She was named a Globe Award Honoree at this prestigious event.
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards Best Actress of the Year (2009): Funke won this award for her performance in Jenifa. Best Lead Actress in an Indigenous Language (2012): She was recognized for her role in Maami.
- African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) Best Actress in a Leading Role (2009): Funke received this award for her performance in Jenifa.
Akindele has also been honoured with the Nigeria Entertainment Awards, Best of Nollywood Awards, and the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). Notably, she won Best Actress in a Leading Role at the 2020 AMAA for Omo Ghetto: The Saga. Additionally, her work earned her the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) award for Best Producer in 2021 and the Nigerian Women Achievement Award in 2022.
In addition to these awards, her movies consistently break box office records in Nigeria. For instance, her film A Tribe Called Judah became the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time, grossing over $1.2 million.
In addition to her awards in acting, Funke has been celebrated for her contributions as a producer and director. Her ability to bring stories to life, whether through her writing, acting, or directing, has earned her a special place in the hearts of many fans and colleagues.
A Legacy in the Making
Funke Akindele’s journey in Nollywood is far from over. With each new project, she continues to push the boundaries of Nigerian cinema, creating content that is both entertaining and impactful. Her work has inspired a new generation of filmmakers and actors, and her influence on the industry is undeniable.
As she continues to expand her repertoire, there is no doubt that Funke Akindele’s legacy will endure. From her early days as Bisi in I Need to Know to her current status as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures, Funke’s journey so far is a testament to her talent, determination, and vision.
Her story is a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for aspiring actors, writers, and filmmakers, proving that with passion and perseverance, the sky is truly the limit.
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