Funke Akindele, a name that resonates with excellence in the Nigerian entertainment industry, continues to be one of the richest and most influential actresses in the country.
With a career spanning over two decades, Funke has not only captivated audiences with her remarkable acting skills but has also established herself as a successful movie producer and entrepreneur. As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands at an impressive $7.6 million.
Funke Akindele’s rise to fame is a story of talent, hard work, and strategic career choices. Best known for her iconic role in the popular TV series Jenifa’s Diary, Funke’s ability to connect with her audience through relatable characters has made her a household name.
Her success in Nollywood is not limited to acting alone; she has also made a significant impact as a producer, with several successful movies and series under her belt.
Endorsement Deals and Business Ventures
A considerable portion of Funke Akindele’s wealth comes from her numerous endorsement deals. Her marketability and widespread appeal have made her a sought-after brand ambassador for various companies.
One of her notable endorsements is with Irokotv, a leading online platform for African entertainment content. This partnership has not only boosted her earnings but also expanded her influence in the digital entertainment space.
In 2018, Funke was signed as a brand ambassador for Keystone Bank, a financial institution known for its innovative banking solutions. This endorsement further solidified her status as a top-tier celebrity in Nigeria.
Additionally, in November 2019, she inked a deal with Waw Nigeria, a company renowned for its detergents and bar soaps. This collaboration aligned with her clean and family-friendly image, making her an ideal representative for the brand.
Funke Akindele’s Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Funke Akindele’s net worth is estimated at $7.6 million. This figure reflects her earnings from acting, movie production, and her numerous endorsement deals.
Her financial success is a testament to her talent, business acumen, and the ability to leverage her popularity into lucrative opportunities.
Funke Akindele’s journey from a talented actress to one of Nigeria’s wealthiest celebrities is nothing short of inspiring.
Her net worth in 2024 is a reflection of years of dedication, hard work, and smart business decisions. As she continues to break new ground in the entertainment industry and beyond, there is no doubt that her influence and wealth will only continue to grow.
| Real name | Akindele-Bello Olufunke Ayotunde |
| Known As | Jennifer |
| Date of birth | 24 August 1977 |
| Country of Origin | Federal Republic of Nigeria |
| Net worth | $7.6 million |
Funke Akindele Biography
Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele, born on August 24, 1977, is a prominent Nigerian filmmaker, actress, director, producer, and politician.
Widely recognized by her stage names, Funke Akindele or Jenifa, she first gained widespread attention with her role in the popular sitcom ‘I Need to Know’, which aired from 1998 to 2002.
Her breakthrough came in 2009 when she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in the movie ‘Jenifa’.
This role catapulted her to fame, leading to the creation of the successful television series ‘Jenifa’s Diary’ in 2015.
Her portrayal in the series earned her the Best Actress in a Comedy award at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2016 and 2017.
Funke Akindele went on to win the same award in 2020 and 2022, securing a total of five wins in this category.
Akindele holds the distinction of being the most nominated actress and filmmaker at the AMVCA, with six awards to her name, making her the actress with the most wins in the award’s history.
Additionally, she is the second director to surpass a billion naira in earnings at the Nigerian box office and is currently the highest-grossing Nigerian director, with her films accumulating over ₦2.9 billion.
In a significant milestone, Funke Akindele made history as the first Nigerian actress to purchase a private jet.
In the political arena, Akindele was selected as the running mate for the People’s Democratic Party gubernatorial candidate, Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, in the 2023 Lagos State governorship election.
Funke Akindele Age
Akindele Bello Olufunke Ayotunde, popularly known as Funke Akindele or by her beloved character “Jenifa,” is a celebrated Nigerian actress and producer whose influence in the entertainment industry is profound.
Born on August 24th, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria, Funke Akindele turned 47 in 2024. Her age, however, is just a number as she continues to break new ground and captivate audiences with her timeless talent and creativity.
Funke Akindele’s career has spanned over two decades, during which she has established herself as a leading figure in Nollywood.
Despite her many years in the industry, her energy, versatility, and passion for her craft remain as strong as ever.
Whether she’s portraying the hilarious and unforgettable character of Jenifa or producing critically acclaimed films, Funke has shown that age is no barrier to continued success and reinvention.
As she celebrates her 47th year, Funke Akindele stands as a role model for aspiring actors and producers, not just in Nigeria but across Africa.
Her ability to remain relevant in a constantly evolving industry speaks volumes about her talent and determination. Funke’s journey is a testament to the fact that with hard work and resilience, one can achieve great success at any stage in life.
At 47, Funke Akindele is more than just an age; she is a symbol of enduring excellence in Nigerian entertainment. Her contributions to the industry, coupled with her unwavering commitment to her craft, continue to inspire millions.
As she adds another year to her remarkable life, Funke Akindele remains a shining example of what it means to age gracefully while still pushing the boundaries of creativity and success.
Funke Akindele Early life and education
Funke Akindele was born on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. As a Yoruba woman, she is the second of three siblings, with an older sister and a younger brother.
Her mother is a medical doctor, and her father is a retired school principal. Funke began her education at Grace Children’s School in Gbagada, Lagos State.
She later pursued an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Mass Communication from Ogun State Polytechnic, which is now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. Following that, she earned a Law degree from the University of Lagos.
Funke Akindele Career
Funke Akindele gained widespread recognition after starring in the popular sitcom ‘I Need to Know’, sponsored by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which aired from 1998 to 2002.
In the show, she portrayed Bisi, a curious and intelligent secondary school student, a role that brought her into the spotlight.
However, it was her performance in the 2008 movie ‘Jenifa’ that truly marked her breakthrough in the Nigerian film industry.
In January 2018, Funke Akindele was at the center of a controversy when reports surfaced that she would make her Hollywood debut in Marvel’s ‘Avengers: Infinity War’.
The rumor started after she was listed as a cast member on IMDb, sparking excitement among her fans and the Nigerian press, who reported that she would be playing a Dora Milaje guard.
However, a few weeks later, her name was replaced by fellow Nigerian actress Genevieve Nnaji, and it was revealed that the IMDb listing had been the result of a hack.
Despite this, the buzz surrounding the incident led Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki to suggest that Marvel Studios should consider featuring Akindele in the film.
In a July 2016 interview, Funke Akindele explained that she had been taking on fewer roles in the Yoruba film industry due to the prevalence of piracy.
Nevertheless, she continued to captivate audiences as the lead character in the hit TV series ‘Jenifa’s Diary’, which is an adaptation of the movie ‘Jenifa’. The show features a talented cast including Fisayo Ajisola, Falz, Juliana Olayode, and Aderounmu Adejumoke.
In 2018, Akindele co-starred with Omoni Oboli in the comedy film *Moms at War*. The following year, she launched a new web series, *Aiyetoro Town*, which is a spinoff from ‘Jenifa’s Diary’.
She also served as the CEO of Scene One Film Production. Expanding her creative horizons, Funke Akindele made her directorial debut with the 2019 political drama film ‘Your Excellency’, marking another milestone in her illustrious career.
Funke Akindele Political career
Funke Akindele was selected as the Lagos State deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections.
Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, also known as Jandor, justified her nomination by highlighting the value she would bring to his campaign in the general elections.
Upon confirming her candidacy, Funke Akindele announced that she would be putting her acting career on hold to focus on her new political role.
Funke Akindele Personal life
On May 26, 2012, Funke Akindele married Adeola Kehinde Oloyede. However, their marriage ended in July 2013 due to irreconcilable differences.
In May 2016, Funke married Nigerian rapper JJC Skillz in London. Her pregnancy rumors became one of the most searched topics on Google in August 2017.
Unfortunately, JJC Skillz announced the end of their six-year marriage on June 30, 2022, via his official Instagram account.
Funke Akindele welcomed twin boys in December 2018 and is also a stepmother to several children from JJC Skillz’s previous relationships.
Funke Akindele Controversy
In April 2020, Funke Akindele and her then-husband, JJC Skillz, were arrested for hosting a birthday party for him during a government-mandated lockdown aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.
Following the incident, Funke appeared in a Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) video to help raise awareness about the virus. After pleading guilty to violating the lockdown order, the couple was sentenced to 14 days of community service.
