By Prosper Mene
Award-winning Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has moved fans with an emotional tribute to her late mother, Dr. Adebanjo Akindele, on what would have been her birthday. The star took to Instagram to share a touching message and a video clip of her mother, expressing her ongoing commitment to making her proud.
In her post, Funke wrote, “Happy heavenly Birthday to my darling mother!!! Iya Bunmi, I want you to know that I’m working hard to build a life that makes you proud. I’m prioritizing my well-being, just as you advised, and striving to live each day with purpose and joy. Keep resting in perfect peace, Mum. Your love and legacy will forever be in our hearts.”
The tribute connects deeply with fans and colleagues, who flooded the comment section with prayers and words of support. Many praised Funke for her strength and devotion to family, noting the profound impact her mother’s legacy continues to have on her life and career.
Funke’s mother passed away on February 7, 2023, a loss that deeply affected the actress. In a recent interview, she opened up about the emotional toll of her mother’s death, admitting she “broke down for weeks” while grappling with personal challenges, including single motherhood and online bullying. Despite these struggles, Funke has channeled her grief into her work, continuing to inspire audiences with her resilience.
This is not the first time Funke has publicly honored her mother. Last year, she marked her mother’s 70th posthumous birthday with a similar tribute, celebrating her selflessness and love as the driving force behind her success. She also dedicated her record-breaking movie to her mother in 2024, showing the enduring influence of her memory.
Known as the “Tyler Perry of Nollywood,” Funke Akindele remains a beacon of strength and creativity in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Her latest tribute serves as a reminder of the personal losses she has overcome while continuing to uplift others through her work and heartfelt gestures.
Funke’s tribute stands as a testament to the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter, even beyond life.
