Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has shared how she spent her first ₦1 million earned from her breakout role as Bisi in the hit educational television series “I Need to Know.”
In a heartfelt post on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter), Funke reflected on her early days in the Nigerian movie industry, describing her journey as one marked by persistence and determination.
According to the award-winning actress, she began her acting career in 1996, taking on small “waka pass” (minor) roles and enduring several rejections during auditions before landing her big break.
Her perseverance paid off in 1999 when she was cast in I Need to Know, a popular UNFPA-supported series that raised awareness on issues affecting teenagers. The show’s success not only shot her into the limelight but also earned her the first ₦1 million of her career.
Speaking on how she spent the money, Funke said the first person she informed was her mother, who advised her to pay her tithe before spending the rest.
“I made that around 1999. I started my career from like 1996, playing waka pass roles, 1997 going for auditions, getting a lot of nos. Then I got one big yes with I Need to Know, and that is how I got my first ₦1 million,” she recalled.
“What did I do with one million naira? First, I showed it to my mom. She advised that I pay my tithe first. After that, I went to Yaba because I didn’t have shoes. I changed my wardrobe, shoes, bags, everything. The girl that had no shoes yesterday has today.”
Funke Akindele, who has since grown to become one of Nigeria’s most successful actresses and producers, said the experience taught her to appreciate humble beginnings and remain grateful for her journey.
The actress’s revelation has since inspired many young Nigerians who look up to her as a symbol of perseverance and discipline. Fans praised her humility and openness about her early struggles, with many describing her story as a reminder that success often comes through consistency and faith.
Today, Funke Akindele is not only one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars but also a record-breaking filmmaker, with her movies like Battle on Buka Street and A Tribe Called Judah setting unprecedented box office records.
Her story reflects how passion, hard work, and a willingness to learn can transform humble beginnings into an extraordinary legacy.
