When you talk about legends in Nollywood, Funke Akindele is a name that shines bright. From her early days on I Need to Know to becoming the powerhouse behind record-breaking films like Omo Ghetto: The Saga, Funke has remained a symbol of talent, resilience, and reinvention.
Early Life and Education
Funke Akindele, born Akindele-Bello Olufunke Ayotunde, came into this world on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State. The second of three children, she grew up in a disciplined, middle-class family. Her mother was a medical doctor, while her father was a retired school principal.
She attended Grace Children School in Gbagada and Lagos State Model College, Igbo-Kuta. Driven by a love for media, she studied Mass Communication at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, earning an OND, and later obtained a Law degree from the University of Lagos.
Source: Facebook
Breaking Into Nollywood
Funke’s first big break came in the late ‘90s when she played Bisi in the UNFPA-sponsored series “I Need to Know” (1998–2002). The role earned her national fame as a relatable, intelligent teenage girl navigating puberty and peer pressure.
But her real star-making moment came in 2008 with her self-produced film “Jenifa”. The movie told the story of a village girl trying to blend in with city elites and was both hilarious and deeply relatable. Jenifa was a massive hit, winning her the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2009.
From Jenifa to Industry Mogul
Funke turned Jenifa into a long-running TV series, “Jenifa’s Diary,” which aired to millions across Africa. Over time, she evolved from actress to director, screenwriter, and producer, launching her own company, Scene One Film Productions.
Her filmography includes:
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Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – the highest-grossing Nigerian film ever
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Battle on Buka Street (2022)
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Aiyetoro Town
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Industreet
Awards and Achievements
Funke Akindele has received over 50 awards, including:
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AMVCA (Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards)
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Africa Movie Academy Awards
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Nigeria Entertainment Awards
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Forbes Africa 100 Most Influential Women (2022)
Personal Life
Funke married rapper and filmmaker Abdulrasheed Bello (JJC Skillz) in 2016. Though the marriage ended in 2022, the couple share twin boys together. Despite personal hurdles, Funke has remained focused and grounded in her faith and career.
️ Political Ambition
In 2022, Funke made headlines by stepping into politics. She ran as the deputy governorship candidate for Lagos State under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections. Though they didn’t win, her involvement was historic and inspiring for many Nigerian youths.
Source: Facebook
Legacy and Impact
Funke’s story is not just one of success—it’s about perseverance, reinvention, and passion. From an aspiring law student to one of Africa’s most bankable movie moguls, she remains a beacon of hope for women in entertainment.
Her impact on Nollywood is undeniable, and her legacy as Nigeria’s queen of the screen is firmly cemented.
“Stay true to your roots, stay consistent, and never stop learning.” – Funke Akindele
Stay Inspired!
If you’re a fan of Nollywood or just love inspiring success stories, make sure to follow Funke Akindele on Instagram and check out her latest projects on Scene One TV.