How a Chance Call from Funke Akindele Changed My Life – Tola Oladokun Opens Up

Veteran Nollywood actress, Tola Oladokun, has opened up about the turning point in her career and how a timely call from filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele transformed her professional journey.

Speaking in a new episode of Oyinmomo TV, Oladokun recounted her early struggles and how she met Funke Akindele through fellow industry colleague, Lala, during the “Odun Ifa” era when Akindele was still learning the ropes in Nollywood.

“Lala first introduced me to Funke,” Oladokun shared. “At the time, she invited me to join her on the movie Agbefo, but I couldn’t make it because I was already committed to another production. Despite that, she didn’t forget me.”

She continued, “After Agbefo, Funke called again through Lala and gave me another opportunity. Since then, she has consistently featured me in her projects — long before we did Jenifa. That one call changed everything for me.”

The respected actress didn’t hold back in praising Funke Akindele, describing her as persistent, loyal, and instrumental in uplifting fellow actors.

This heartwarming testimony comes amid recent controversies surrounding Funke’s alleged backstage influence in casting decisions, including reported rifts with actresses like Toyin Abraham and Beverly Osu — allegations she has not publicly addressed.

Still, Oladokun’s emotional praise paints a different picture of Funke Akindele — one of mentorship, respect, and transformative opportunity.

In recent months, several actors — including Ijoba Lande — have both praised and criticized the superstar actress, revealing complex dynamics behind the scenes of Nollywood’s fast-paced industry.

But for Tola Oladokun, that first call from Funke wasn’t just a casting decision — it was a life-changer.