Nigerian influencer and media personality, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, has spoken out against the constant comparison between Nollywood actress Funke Akindele and American actress Taraji P. Henson. Enioluwa took to his Instagram page and the microblogging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his dissatisfaction with those who equate Funke Akindele’s success to that of Western figures.
In his post, Enioluwa acknowledged his admiration for Taraji P. Henson but emphasized that Funke Akindele is a trailblazer in her own right. He stated that the Nollywood star should not be viewed as the Nigerian version of anyone, as she has created her own path and broken multiple records in the film industry. According to him, it is unnecessary for Nigerians to validate their icons by comparing them to foreign celebrities when they have achieved significant milestones on their own terms.
“I really don’t like seeing comments calling Aunty Funke the ‘Nigerian version of Taraji P. Henson.’ As much as I love Taraji and admire her work, I don’t understand the constant need to compare our icons to Western figures. Funke Akindele is The Funke Akindele—an unstoppable box office record breaker. She’s not a version of anyone but herself,” Enioluwa wrote.
The comparison between Funke Akindele and Taraji P. Henson is not new. Both actresses are known for their versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters on screen. Over the years, their similar boldness and commanding screen presence have fueled discussions among fans who see parallels between the two. However, Funke Akindele has repeatedly proven herself to be a force to reckon with in the Nigerian film industry. Her success at the box office has consistently shattered records, making her the most successful filmmaker in Nigeria and West Africa.
Funke Akindele’s films continue to dominate the Nigerian box office. Her productions, including “A Tribe Called Judah,” “Battle on Buka Street,” “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” and “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” remain some of the highest-grossing films in the region. “A Tribe Called Judah” alone holds the record as the highest-grossing Nigerian film of all time, further establishing her legacy as an industry powerhouse. Her ability to blend comedy with compelling storytelling has endeared her to audiences across various demographics.
Beyond her cinematic success, Funke Akindele has also been open about the personal and professional challenges she has faced on her journey to stardom. In a candid reflection last year, she shared her experiences of overcoming obstacles and maintaining resilience in the face of adversity. She described herself as a living testimony of hard work and determination, highlighting the importance of self-belief and perseverance.
Despite the comparisons, Funke Akindele’s career trajectory remains unique. She continues to push boundaries, produce groundbreaking films, and inspire a new generation of Nigerian filmmakers. Her work has not only elevated Nollywood on the global stage but also created opportunities for emerging talent within the industry.
Enioluwa’s comments reflect a broader sentiment about recognizing and celebrating Nigerian excellence without relying on Western validation. Many of his followers echoed his sentiments, agreeing that Funke Akindele’s achievements speak for themselves and should be viewed independently. His public defense of the actress underscores the importance of giving Nigerian creatives the credit they deserve without constantly measuring their success against foreign benchmarks.
As Funke Akindele continues to lead the charge in Nollywood, her influence shows no signs of slowing down. With each new project, she cements her position as a transformative figure in African cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Enioluwa’s statement serves as a reminder that Nigerian stars are shaping their own narratives and that their contributions should be acknowledged on their own merits.