Nobody Made Me A Star – Funke Akindele Credits God and Hard Work for Her Success

Nollywood actress and producer Funke Akindele has attributed her success in the entertainment industry to God and her own hard work. Speaking at the MIPAN 2025 Media Sales Conference in Lagos, Akindele stated:

“Nobody made me a star, only God. I wrote my script, and that was it. The first ‘Jenifa’ was released in 2009, and that was the turning point.”

Akindele also acknowledged the role of veteran singer D’banj in her career. She revealed that D’banj offered her valuable advice and financial support, encouraging her to build on the “Jenifa” brand.

At a club event, Akindele met D’banj, who asked about her plans for the “Jenifa” brand. She expressed her intention to move on to other projects, but D’banj advised her to “milk” the brand, emphasizing its potential. He provided her with financial support, enabling her to continue writing.

Akindele’s career took off with her role in the popular sitcom “I Need to Know” (1998-2002). Her breakthrough film, “Jenifa,” was released in 2008, catapulting her to fame and establishing her as the highest-grossing producer in Nigerian cinema.

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