How I Made My First One Million Naira – Funke Akindele

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has revealed how she earned her first ₦1 million in 1999 through her breakout role as Bisi in the popular TV series I Need to Know.

In a recent video, Akindele reflected on her early struggles in the film industry, her journey from playing minor “waka pass” roles to finally landing the life-changing role that brought her into the limelight.

“I made that around 1999. I started my career in 1996, playing waka pass roles, then going for auditions in 1997 but getting a lot of ‘nos’. Then I got one big ‘yes’ with I Need to Know, and that’s how I made my first ₦1 million,” she shared.

Almost Losing the Role

Akindele revealed she nearly lost the Bisi role after being told she was “overacting.” However, she later got encouragement and guidance that helped her improve.

“I almost lost the role of Bisi. After shooting the pilot, they told me I was overacting and needed to read my script again. I was worried and told my younger sister. She read the script aloud like a teenager, and I immediately got into character. That was how I nailed the role,” she recalled.

How She Spent Her First Million

The actress also shared how she spent her first big earnings. According to her, the first thing she did was show the money to her mother, who advised her to pay her tithe.

“What did I do with the ₦1 million? First, I showed it to my mom. She advised me to pay my tithe, which I did. Then I went to Yaba market because I didn’t have enough clothes or shoes. I just wanted to update my wardrobe,” she said with a laugh.