Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has shared a remarkable story of support from Nigerian music icon D’banj, highlighting how the singer postponed his own commitments to contribute to her latest “Jenifa” project without charging a fee. The revelation came during the premiere of “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” adding another chapter to the long-standing collaborative relationship between these two entertainment giants.
Speaking at the premiere, Akindele recounted how D’banj made the extraordinary decision to reschedule his own project commitments when she reached out for his support. “A big thank you to Bangalee,” she expressed, noting how the singer instructed his team to adjust their plans to accommodate her request, all while refusing compensation for his contribution.
This recent show of support isn’t an isolated incident in their professional relationship. Earlier in June, during D’banj’s anniversary dinner, Akindele had credited the singer with providing crucial encouragement that helped preserve the beloved “Jenifa” brand. She revealed how D’banj not only offered moral support but also provided financial backing for her subsequent projects, demonstrating his long-term commitment to her creative vision.
The significance of D’banj’s support becomes even more apparent when considering Akindele’s recent achievements in the Nigerian film industry. Her status as the Queen of Box Office was cemented in January when she made history as the first Nigerian filmmaker to exceed one billion naira in cinema earnings with “A Tribe Called Judah,” which ultimately grossed over N1.4 billion.
“Everybody Loves Jenifa” represents another milestone in Akindele’s career, particularly in terms of its social impact. The project has provided employment opportunities for 175 crew members, with Akindele proudly noting that 95% of these positions were filled by young people. The nine-week production, entirely self-funded, showcases her commitment not just to entertainment but to industry development and youth empowerment.
Further demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence, Akindele’s collaboration with the Lagos State Fire Service for the film production highlights her attention to detail and dedication to authenticity. This partnership, revealed by Jubril Giwa, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Lagos State Governor, underscores the project’s commitment to maintaining high production standards.
The relationship between Akindele and D’banj exemplifies the kind of cross-industry support that has become increasingly vital in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape. Their collaboration challenges the notion of rivalry between different sectors of the entertainment industry, instead showcasing how mutual support can lead to greater success for all involved.
As “Everybody Loves Jenifa” prepares to make its mark on Nigerian cinema, the story of D’banj’s support serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of industry solidarity. It also highlights how established artists can play crucial roles in supporting and sustaining successful franchises like the “Jenifa” brand, which has become a significant part of Nigerian popular culture.
The continuation of the “Jenifa” saga, bolstered by such high-profile support, suggests that Akindele’s streak of success is likely to continue. With her proven track record at the box office and her commitment to industry development, she continues to set new standards for filmmaking in Nigeria while maintaining the authentic storytelling that has made her a household name.
This latest chapter in Akindele’s career, marked by D’banj’s selfless support, not only adds to her impressive legacy but also sets an inspiring example of how collaboration and mutual support can elevate Nigeria’s entertainment industry as a whole.
