Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, has shared how she earned her first ₦1 million at the age of 22, recalling the challenges that marked her early years in the film industry.
In a video posted on her X account, the 48-year-old recounted how her acting journey began in 1996, when she took on minor roles and faced repeated rejections before landing her breakthrough role.
“I made that around 1999. I started my career in 1996, playing waka pass roles, and in 1997, I went for auditions and got a lot of nos,” she said.
According to her, persistence eventually paid off when she landed a major role in the television series I Need to Know, which marked a turning point in her career.
“Then I got one big yes with I Need to Know, and that is how I got my first N1 million.”
I Need to Know was one of Nigeria’s early family-focused dramas, airing on NTA from 1997 to 2002.
Get ready with me for the #MySecurityVoteChallenge grand finale with OPay!
But before we step out, let’s have a quick gist about how I made my first 1 million Naira!
That milestone taught me that hard work truly pays and your “yes” moment can change everything.… pic.twitter.com/CIqMffgHYV— Funke Akindele (@funkeakindele) October 18, 2025
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Supported by the UNFPA, the show educated teenagers on reproductive health and adolescence, with Akindele starring as Bisi alongside Uche Ejiogu, Taiwo Lesh, and Amaka Egwuatu.
Speaking further, the actress revealed how she handled her first major earnings, noting that her mother’s advice guided her spending decisions.
“What did I do with one million naira? First, I showed it to my mom. Of course, she knew about it, and then mommy advised that I have to pay my tithe first.
“I paid my tithe, then entered Yaba because I didn’t have shoes. I changed my wardrobe, shoes, bags, everything. The girl who had no shoes yesterday has today,” she said.
Since launching her career nearly three decades ago, Akindele has produced and starred in blockbuster films such as Jenifa (2008), Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020), and A Tribe Called Judah (2023), the latter becoming Nigeria’s highest-grossing film.
Beyond the screen, the award-winning actress has also delved into politics and philanthropy. She also served as the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State during the 2023 election, running alongside Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor.
