Funke Akindele Talks Industry Challenges

Funke Akindele, the acclaimed Nigerian actress, producer, and box office sensation, recently opened up about the true keys to success. In an insightful conversation on WithChude, hosted by media personality Chude Jideonwo, Funke shared that real success demands more than just talent, it requires a willingness to do the hard, often unglamorous work.

Reflecting on her journey, she revealed how staying motivated is about more than just celebrating past wins. Even with a career brimming with achievements, Funke remains focused on pushing herself further. For her, it’s all about dedication, discipline, and a relentless work ethic, day in and day out.

She also highlighted the significance of spirituality, self-awareness, and staying true to oneself as fundamental pillars that have helped her adapt and thrive in the competitive entertainment world. “People see where I am and want to be in my shoes, but I always tell them: to get here, you have to be ready to put in the work, even when it’s not glamorous,” she shared.

Funke’s remarkable track record at the Nigerian box office, where she’s remained a dominant force for four consecutive years, she attributes to her deliberate approach and constant pursuit of perfection. Moreover, she spoke about the emotional side of her journey, revealing how she handles personal grief, ensuring that her struggles don’t hinder her professional focus.

In the midst of her success, Funke found herself at the center of a controversy involving skit maker Ganiyu Kehinde Morufu, aka Ijoba Lande. The skitmaker made headlines when he accused her of underpaying him for a month of work on her movie set, claiming he received only ₦90,000. Lande shared how Funke reached out to him on social media after being impressed by one of his videos, and he agreed to the role without asking for much in return, thinking it could be the big break he needed. However, he was disappointed by the modest pay and, in hindsight, vowed to always charge for his services going forward.

Lande also expressed frustration over Funke’s unapproachable demeanor. However, just hours after the video went viral, Lande posted a follow-up, clarifying that he had actually been paid ₦190,000 and offering an apology for his earlier statement.