Funke Akindele: Age, Husband, Parents, Kids, Wikipedia, Net Worth
Funke Akindele Biography Introduction
Funke Akindele is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated actresses, filmmakers, and producers. Widely regarded as a powerhouse in Nollywood, she rose to fame with the hit sitcom I Need to Know and later became a cultural icon through the blockbuster Jenifa franchise. With multiple awards, record-breaking films, and an enduring career spanning decades, Funke Akindele remains a dominant force in African entertainment.
Basic Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele |
| Popularly Known As | Funke Akindele / Jenifa |
| Date of Birth | August 24, 1977 |
| Age | 48 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Actress, Filmmaker, Producer, Director, Politician |
| Parents | Rev. Victor Akindele (father), Dr. (Mrs.) Akindele (mother) |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Children | Twin boys |
| Net Worth | Estimated $7–10 million |
Early Life and Background
Funke Akindele was born on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State. She is the second of three children in a disciplined and educated family. Her late father, Rev. Victor Akindele, was a school principal, while her mother is a retired medical doctor.
Growing up in Lagos, Funke was exposed to strong values of education, faith, and hard work. These foundations played a major role in shaping her resilience and determination to succeed in the entertainment industry.
Education
Funke Akindele attended Grace Children’s School in Gbagada, Lagos, before proceeding to Federal Government Girls’ College, Sagamu, Ogun State. She later earned a degree in Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta. To further sharpen her craft, she also obtained a Law degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Career
Funke Akindele’s acting career began in 1998 when she starred in the popular UN-sponsored TV series I Need to Know. However, her major breakthrough came in 2008 with the movie Jenifa, where her comic portrayal of a troubled young woman won the hearts of millions.
Major Works
Some of her most notable projects include:
- Jenifa
- The Return of Jenifa
- Jenifa’s Diary
- Omo Ghetto: The Saga
- Battle on Buka Street
- She Must Be Obeyed
Funke Akindele has consistently broken box office records, with several of her films ranking among the highest-grossing Nigerian movies of all time.
Rise to Fame
The success of Jenifa transformed Funke Akindele into a household name. Her unique blend of comedy, street slang, and relatable storytelling made her character iconic. She successfully expanded the brand into a long-running TV series, Jenifa’s Diary, which further cemented her status as a Nollywood legend.
Awards and Achievements
Funke Akindele is the most awarded actress at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). She has won numerous accolades for Best Actress and Best Comedy Actress, earning respect both locally and internationally.
Personal Life
Husband and Marriage
Funke Akindele has been married twice. Her first marriage to Kehinde Oloyede ended in divorce in 2013. She later married Nigerian rapper and filmmaker Abdulrasheed Bello, popularly known as JJC Skillz, in 2016. The marriage produced twin boys in 2018 but ended in separation in 2022.
Kids
Funke Akindele is a proud mother of twin boys. She keeps her children largely out of the public eye, choosing to protect their privacy despite her fame.
Views on Life and Relationships
Funke Akindele has often spoken about resilience, self-worth, and hard work. She believes strongly in personal growth, learning from setbacks, and staying focused on one’s purpose despite public scrutiny.
Social Media Presence
Funke Akindele maintains a strong presence on social media, where she shares movie updates, brand deals, and motivational content with millions of followers.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @funkejenifaakindele
- Twitter (X): @funkeakindele
- Facebook: Funke Akindele Official
Controversies
As a high-profile public figure, Funke Akindele has faced occasional controversies, ranging from on-set disputes to public criticism of her political ambitions. Despite this, she has remained focused on her career and continues to reinvent herself creatively.
Net Worth
Funke Akindele’s estimated net worth is between $7 million and $10 million. Her wealth comes from acting, film production, endorsements, brand partnerships, and business ventures. She is regarded as one of the richest and most influential actresses in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Funke Akindele is a trailblazer in Nollywood whose impact transcends entertainment. From humble beginnings to becoming a box-office queen and cultural icon, her journey is a testament to talent, consistency, and determination. With her continued success in film and media, Funke Akindele remains an inspiration to aspiring creatives across Africa and beyond.