Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, has opened up about a pivotal moment in her career, revealing how she earned her first ₦1 million through her breakout role as ‘Bisi’ in the hit 90s educational TV series I Need to Know.

 

In a heartfelt video posted on her X (formerly Twitter) account, Akindele took fans down memory lane, recounting the humble beginnings of her acting journey. She began her career in 1996, playing minor roles popularly referred to in Nigeria as “waka pass,” and facing multiple rejections at auditions before landing her big break.

 

“I made that around 1999. I started my career from like 1996, playing waka pass roles, 1997 going for auditions, getting a lot of nos,” she shared.

 

Her perseverance eventually paid off when she was cast in I Need to Know, a United Nations Population Fund-sponsored show aimed at educating young Nigerians on adolescent health.

 

“Then I got one big yes with I Need to Know, and that is how I got my first ₦1 million,” she said.

 

Recalling how she spent the money, Akindele revealed that the first person she informed was her mother, who immediately reminded her of the importance of paying tithe.

 

“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,” Akindele explained.

 

After setting aside her tithe, she headed straight to Yaba, a bustling commercial area in Lagos, to upgrade her wardrobe.

 

“I paid my tithe, then I entered Yaba because I didn’t have shoes. I changed my entire wardrobe, including shoes and bags. The girl who had no shoes yesterday has today.”

 

Now one of Nollywood’s most celebrated actresses and a box office powerhouse, Funke Akindele’s story continues to inspire a new generation of dreamers in the Nigerian film industry.