Funke Akindele, the renowned Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and producer, has once again ignited conversations around feminism and gender dynamics with her recent remarks. Known for her boldness both on and off-screen, Akindele identified herself as a feminist while simultaneously rejecting the misconception that feminism equates to women disrespecting their husbands or undermining traditional values. In a thought-provoking video discussing skit creator Kamo State and his wife, she emphasized the importance of mutual respect in relationships and debunked stereotypes about women being the “weaker sex.”
Her comments come at a time when discussions about gender roles and equality continue to dominate societal discourse, particularly in Nigeria, where cultural norms often intersect with evolving modern perspectives. By asserting her stance, Funke Akindele not only clarifies what feminism means to her but also challenges misconceptions that have long plagued the movement.
In the video, Funke Akindele made it clear that feminism, in its true essence, is about empowering women without encouraging disrespect toward men. “I’m a feminist but I do not support a woman disrespecting her husband,” she stated firmly. “Do what is right.” This declaration strikes a balance between advocating for women’s rights and maintaining the sanctity of respectful partnerships.
Akindele went further to dismantle the outdated notion that women are inherently weaker or subordinate to men. She argued passionately that women are strong, bold, and capable of achieving greatness beyond societal limitations. “Men are supposed to treat us specially and respect us,” she said. “Men should not feel that a woman belongs to the kitchen and can be talked to anyhow.” Her words echo the sentiments of countless women who seek recognition for their contributions outside domestic spaces while still valuing harmonious relationships within marriage.
The actress also highlighted the critical role of economic empowerment in fostering equality. Encouraging women to pursue financial independence, she stressed that having economic power enables them to support their families better and contribute meaningfully to their households. “We women are strong, and bold,” she affirmed. “Also, our economic power is important—that is why we should make sure we have the power and protect it so we can support our husbands.”
This perspective underscores a key tenet of modern feminism: the idea that empowering women benefits everyone, including their partners and communities. By promoting financial literacy and entrepreneurship among women, Akindele aligns herself with a broader vision of progress—one where women thrive alongside men rather than against them.
One of the most pervasive myths about feminism is that it seeks to diminish men or disrupt traditional family structures. Funke Akindele’s statement directly counters this narrative by affirming that feminism is not synonymous with antagonism toward men. Instead, it champions equality and mutual respect in all spheres of life.
Feminism, at its core, advocates for gender justice—ensuring that individuals of all genders receive fair treatment and opportunities regardless of societal expectations. It addresses issues such as unequal pay, limited access to education, reproductive rights, and gender-based violence. Contrary to popular belief, feminism does not advocate for women to dominate men; rather, it calls for dismantling systems of oppression that disadvantage women and other marginalized groups.
By identifying as a feminist, Funke Akindele joins a growing list of influential figures using their platforms to educate others about the movement’s true purpose. Her message resonates deeply in a country like Nigeria, where deeply ingrained patriarchal attitudes often overshadow efforts to promote gender equality. Through her work and public statements, she challenges these biases while offering practical solutions for creating more equitable relationships.
A significant aspect of Akindele’s advocacy centers on the importance of women’s economic empowerment. In many parts of Africa, including Nigeria, women face systemic barriers to financial independence, ranging from limited access to education and employment opportunities to discriminatory practices in business environments. These obstacles perpetuate cycles of dependency and inequality, making it harder for women to assert themselves in personal and professional settings.
Funke Akindele’s emphasis on economic power reflects an understanding of how financial autonomy transforms lives. When women earn their own income, they gain greater decision-making authority within their households and communities. They become less vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, and they can invest in their children’s futures, thereby breaking intergenerational poverty.
Moreover, economically empowered women serve as catalysts for change. Their success inspires others to pursue similar paths, gradually shifting societal perceptions of what women can achieve. Akindele’s call for women to “have the power and protect it” serves as both a motivational mantra and a strategic directive for achieving sustainable progress.
Funke Akindele’s approach to feminism acknowledges the tension between preserving cultural traditions and embracing contemporary ideals. While she advocates for women’s rights and empowerment, she does so without dismissing the value of respect and harmony in marital relationships. This nuanced perspective allows her to bridge generational gaps and appeal to diverse audiences.
For instance, her rejection of the idea that women belong solely in the kitchen resonates with younger generations eager to break free from restrictive gender roles. At the same time, her insistence on mutual respect appeals to older, more conservative individuals who prioritize stability and decorum in marriages. By striking this balance, Akindele demonstrates that feminism need not alienate those who hold traditional views—it can instead enrich and expand their understanding of gender dynamics.
As one of Nollywood’s most prominent figures, Funke Akindele wields considerable influence over public opinion. Her decision to speak openly about feminism and gender equality amplifies these topics’ visibility and encourages constructive dialogue. By sharing her beliefs through videos and interviews, she reaches millions of viewers, sparking conversations that might otherwise remain unspoken.
Her involvement in filmmaking further enhances her ability to drive change. Movies and television shows have immense power to shape cultural narratives, and Akindele has consistently used her projects to highlight social issues affecting women. From portraying complex female characters to addressing themes like domestic violence and career aspirations, her work reflects a commitment to advancing women’s causes.
Funke Akindele’s recent remarks serve as a reminder that feminism is not a monolithic ideology but a multifaceted movement rooted in inclusivity and equity. Her emphasis on respecting husbands while advocating for women’s rights illustrates the possibility of coexistence between tradition and modernity. By championing economic empowerment and challenging harmful stereotypes, she provides actionable steps for fostering gender equality in everyday life.
As society continues to grapple with questions of identity, power, and representation, voices like Akindele’s play a vital role in guiding the conversation. Her willingness to engage with controversial topics head-on ensures that feminism remains relevant and accessible to people from all walks of life.
Ultimately, Funke Akindele’s message transcends individual opinions—it invites collective reflection and action. Whether through supporting women entrepreneurs, challenging discriminatory policies, or simply engaging in respectful dialogue, everyone has a part to play in building a more just and equitable world. And as Akindele reminds us, doing so requires courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right.
