Everybody Loves Jenifa, a movie by highly rated, award-winning Nigerian actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has become the first Nollywood film to reach $100,000 in diaspora sales.
To celebrate the feat, Akindele, on social networking site, Instagram, expressed her appreciation.
The actress lauded her cast, fans, colleagues, and the diasporan community for their unalloyed support.
Sh wrote: “We did it, guys. $100,000 in diaspora sales and counting, the first Nollywood film to hit this milestone.
“I’m beyond grateful to my incredible cast, the unstoppable Jenifans, my amazing colleagues, the diasporan community and everyone who’s been part of this journey, you’re the real MVPs.
“Your love and support have been the fuel behind this dream. I couldn’t have done this without you. THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.”
Who is Funke Akindele?
Checks by Diaspora Digital Media indicate that she was Born on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria, she is the second of three children. Akindele obtained an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Mass Communication from the former Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic) and a degree in Law from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) but did not practice law.
Akindele’s career in the entertainment industry began in the late 1990s, with her breakthrough role coming in 2008 with the movie “Jenifa.”
The film’s success spawned a sequel, “Jenifa’s Diary,” and established Akindele as a leading lady in Nollywood.
She has since appeared in numerous films, including “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” “A Tribe Called Judah,” “Maami,” and “Married but Living Single.”
Akindele has earned numerous awards and nominations for her performances, including several Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA), Best of Nollywood Awards, and City People Entertainment Awards.
She has also been recognized for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the area of education.
In addition to her work in film, Akindele has ventured into politics.
In 2022, she was nominated as the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State.
She has also been involved in various advocacy campaigns, including the “Jenifa’s Diary” foundation, which focuses on empowering young women.