Funke Akindele Attributes Nollywood Success to God, Hard Work, and D�banj�s Mentorship
Renowned Nollywood actress and movie producer Funke Akindele has attributed her remarkable rise in the Nigerian film industry to divine intervention, unwavering dedication, and a pivotal piece of advice from veteran singer D�banj. Speaking at the Media Independent Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MIPAN) 2025 Media Sales Conference in Lagos, the celebrated thespian dismissed claims of external influence in her stardom, asserting that her achievements are the result of her own perseverance and faith. *Naija News* reported her inspiring revelations, which shed light on the journey behind her iconic *Jenifa* brand.
�I owe my success to God alone�no one else made me a star,� Funke declared during her address. �It was my hard work and commitment to my craft that brought me here. I wrote my own script, and that was the foundation. The first *Jenifa* movie, released in 2009, marked the turning point in my career.�
Reflecting on a defining moment, Funke recounted how a chance encounter with D�banj propelled her to maximize the potential of the *Jenifa* franchise. �After the initial buzz around the movie, a club owner invited me to his venue, and that�s where I met D�banj,� she shared. �He asked what I planned to do with the *Jenifa* brand, and I told him I was ready to move on to something new. But he stopped me and said, �No, you have to milk it. That�s a brand. It shouldn�t just fade away. Go and write another script.� He even gave me some money to support me, and that�s when I went back to keep building on it.�
Funke�s ascent to Nollywood prominence began with her role in the beloved sitcom *I Need to Know*, which aired from 1998 to 2002, captivating audiences across Nigeria. However, it was her 2008 film *Jenifa* that truly cemented her status as a household name. Since then, she has consistently broken barriers, earning the distinction of being the highest-grossing producer in Nigerian cinema history.
Her story serves as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of mentorship�a narrative that continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers and entertainers. With the *Jenifa* brand still thriving, Funke Akindele remains a towering figure in Nollywood, blending talent with an unyielding drive that has redefined success in the industry.
