On October 1, 2024, as Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence Day, Veteran actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele discussed her thoughts on the current "japa" trend—wherein many Nigerians are fleeing the country in search of better chances abroad.
Akindele celebrated the country's new year on Instagram and thanked Nigerians for their tenacity in the face of adversity. She stated that she has no intention of leaving Nigeria for better opportunities, even in the face of adversities, and she is confident that the country would rise again.
The highest-grossing producer in Nigeria and a multiple award-winning producer, Akindele, emphasized her accomplishments in Nigeria. She talked about how Nigeria makes it possible to empower young people, to produce a film with an enormous 175-person crew, and to have her film releases be successful. She said that the possibilities Nigeria gave her were crucial to her career and that she would not desert her nation in times of distress.
In her Independence Day message, shared on her verified Instagram page, Funke Akindele expressed optimism for Nigeria’s future. “Happy Independence Day to my beloved Nigeria! We’ve weathered storms, but our spirit remains unbroken. I celebrate our resilience, creativity & hope. Envisioning a Nigeria where dreams flourish, talents thrive & opportunities abound. Let’s believe in a brighter tomorrow,” she wrote.
Akindele showed her dedication to her nation even further a few hours before she posted when she fed the underprivileged in Somolu, Yaba, Mushin, and other areas of Lagos. She declared that she intended to spread her deed of generosity among the various local governments in Lagos State through her movie initiative, Everybody Loves Jenifa.
