Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele recently reflected on her journey to earning her first ₦1 million in 1999, a milestone that came from her breakout role as Bisi in the popular educational TV series *I Need to Know*. In a video shared on her social media, Akindele recounted how her acting career began in 1996 with small “waka‑pass” parts and a series of rejections at auditions. “I started my career around 1996, playing waka‑pass roles, and in 1997 I kept going to auditions and getting a lot of nos,” she said.
Her perseverance eventually paid off when she was cast in *I Need to Know*, a television series that marked a turning point in her career. The role not only brought her recognition but also her first ₦1 million earnings. When asked how she used the money, Akindele explained that she first showed it to her mother, who advised her to pay her tithe before spending any of it. “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,” she recalled.
After fulfilling that obligation, Akindele used the remaining funds to upgrade her wardrobe, purchasing new shoes, bags, and other essentials. Her story underscores the importance of perseverance and hard work in achieving success. From minor roles to a significant payday, Akindele’s dedication to her craft serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and filmmakers, demonstrating that persistence and determination can lead to lasting achievement. With her breakout role in *I Need to Know*, her career has continued to flourish, making her one of the most recognizable faces in Nollywood.
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