Renowned filmmaker and creative industry entrepreneur, Kunle Afolayan, has debunked claims of a rift with fellow filmmaker Funke Akindele, saying he holds no grudge against her and considers her a sister.
Afolayan made the clarification during an interview with ARISE News on Sunday, following reports that suggested tension between the two Nollywood heavyweights.
He said, “I have absolutely nothing against her. She’s my sister; we grew up together. So when she called and said, ‘I know you don’t like me,’ it was weird. And I’m like, where is this coming from? If for any reason she feels offended, I’m sorry.”
Speaking on film promotion and strategy in Nigeria’s movie industry, Afolayan praised Akindele’s marketing style and encouraged aspiring creatives to study her career approach.
Afolayan said, “I clearly said to them that if you want to adopt a model that I think will work for you now, then follow Funke Akindele’s model. Funke started at a younger age… Look at her brand now. It’s consistent growth.”
He explained that his own strategy differs due to his extensive involvement in the broader creative sector. He highlighted his responsibilities beyond filmmaking, which include running a resort, managing a cultural centre, and operating a film academy.
The actor said, “Do you know how many things I do? I run a resort, I have a cultural center in Lagos, I have an academy that trains people, and we have partners that are not even Nigerians. Film is my core. Film gave birth to all of these other things.”
He emphasized that his remarks were never meant as a critique of Akindele or her methods.
He said, “I didn’t say she doesn’t dance. I have absolutely nothing against her.”
Afolayan’s comments come amid ongoing conversations about the future of Nollywood, especially around sustainable film marketing and distribution models.
He stressed the importance of acknowledging and learning from the successes of colleagues like Funke Akindele in order to foster a thriving creative industry.
