Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele, has revealed how she made her first ₦1 million in 1999 after securing her breakout role as Bisi in the popular television series I Need to Know.
In a video shared on her Instagram page on Saturday, Akindele recounted her early years in the film industry — from facing rejection at auditions to landing the opportunity that would change her life.
“I started acting around 1996, doing minor roles and attending countless auditions,” she said. “After years of hearing ‘no,’ I finally got one big ‘yes’ with I Need to Know. That’s how I earned my first ₦1 million.”
The Battle on Buka Street producer also disclosed that she almost lost the role after being told she was “overacting” during the pilot shoot. Producers advised her to study the script again and better understand the teenage character she was portraying.
Determined not to lose the opportunity, Akindele said she went home to practice with her younger sister, who helped her find a convincing teenage voice, a move that ultimately saved her role.
“I was so worried, but my sister read the script in a teenage tone, and I learned from her. That helped me get the role back,” she said.
Akindele, now one of Nollywood’s most successful filmmakers, also shared how she spent the milestone earnings.
According to her, the first thing she did was show the money to her mother, who encouraged her to pay her tithe before spending on herself.
“After paying my tithe, I went straight to Yaba Market,” she recalled. “I didn’t have good shoes or clothes, so I changed my wardrobe completely. The girl who once had no shoes finally had plenty.”
The actress’s reflection has since resonated with fans, many of whom praised her persistence and humility. Her story adds to a long list of Nollywood success tales that began with determination, rejection, and a single breakthrough role.
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