Funke Akindele Breaks Box Office Records Again with ‘Everybody Loves Jennifer’

Nollywood superstar and filmmaker Funke Akindele continues her reign as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated entertainment icons, shattering box office records with her latest release, Everybody Loves Jennifer. The film has grossed an impressive $194,560 within just eight days of its premiere, cementing Akindele’s position as a dominant force in the Nigerian film industry.

Another Milestone for Funke Akindele

The achievement comes on the heels of her previous success, where one of her earlier productions earned the title of Nollywood’s highest-grossing film. Everybody Loves Jennifer, a sequel to her beloved Jenifa series, blends humor, drama, and cultural authenticity to captivate audiences worldwide.

In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Akindele expressed her gratitude to her fans—affectionately known as “Jenifans”—as well as the cast and her industry colleagues.

Her post read:
“$194,560 and counting in just 8 days, Who else but God? 🙌 Huge thanks to my tireless cast, fabulous colleagues, and unstoppable Jenifans, YOU are the true superstars.”

The actress paired her words with celebratory emojis, highlighting her joy and deep appreciation for the film’s growing success.

Fans and Industry Applaud Akindele’s Success

Fans and industry insiders alike have flooded her social media with congratulatory messages, lauding her for her consistency and ability to tell relatable stories. Many have described Everybody Loves Jennifer as a masterpiece, blending humor and life lessons with the unmistakable charm of Akindele’s storytelling.

The film, released in major cinemas across Nigeria and select international markets, has seen packed audiences since its debut. Its success reaffirms Akindele’s ability to resonate with viewers across demographics while showcasing the strength of Nollywood as a global entertainment powerhouse.

A Legacy of Excellence

Funke Akindele’s success is no accident. With a career spanning over two decades, she has consistently delivered exceptional performances both as an actress and a filmmaker. From her groundbreaking Jenifa’s Diary series to her forays into blockbuster films, Akindele’s brand is synonymous with quality and cultural relevance.

With Everybody Loves Jennifer breaking records within its first week, the film is poised to set even higher milestones in the coming weeks. As audiences continue to flock to cinemas, it’s clear that Funke Akindele’s ability to capture hearts and deliver box-office hits remains unmatched.

Fans are now eagerly anticipating whether the film will surpass her previous record and claim the top spot as Nollywood’s highest-grossing film. Regardless, Akindele’s achievements serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication and talent in elevating Nigerian cinema to new heights.

Femi Adebayo Unveils Cultural and Romantic Inspirations Behind New Film, ‘Seven Doors’

Renowned actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo has shed light on the inspiration behind his latest cinematic venture, Seven Doors, revealing that the story draws heavily from the life experiences of a king he had the privilege of knowing closely.

Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, Adebayo emphasized the importance of preserving African culture through storytelling, particularly in film. “It is extremely important to preserve our culture. Creating content—films—[woven] around the beauty of our culture is one of the ways of preserving it, so that the generations yet unborn can also enjoy it and be educated,” he explained.

The filmmaker shared that his proximity to a king and the monarch’s challenges provided the foundation for the movie’s concept. “I was fortunate to be close to a particular king, and it was what he went through that provoked the idea and concept of Seven Doors. Many people see our kings as mini-gods, which they are, but they forget that they are humans with blood running in their veins too. So, they [kings] face a lot before and after they get on the throne. And, that is what we displayed in the movie,” Adebayo said.

Beyond its cultural focus, Adebayo described Seven Doors as a tale deeply rooted in love. “I also want to preach that love is above all. So, where we have a conflict between love and tradition, automatically it is love that wins,” he added.

The movie also stirred interest for its intense and emotionally charged scenes, including a kissing scene with co-star Chioma Chukwuka. Addressing this, Adebayo clarified that it was part of his dedication to the craft. “I was just interpreting the role; getting the character analysis and interpreting it,” he noted.

Despite the buzz surrounding the romantic sequences, Adebayo highlighted a different moment in the film as his favorite. “For me though, the best scene was where they had to lay the chiefs on the floor and beat them. I was not even in that scene,” he said, underscoring his appreciation for the powerful storytelling throughout the film.

Seven Doors has been widely acclaimed for its rich portrayal of culture and its compelling narrative that bridges tradition and the universal theme of love. The film serves as a testament to Adebayo’s commitment to preserving African heritage while telling stories that resonate with audiences across the globe.

Celebrating a Distinguished Patriot and Statesman: General Olu Bajowa @84

Today, we gather in spirit and gratitude to celebrate a man whose life epitomizes selfless service, courage, and unwavering dedication to the progress of our nation, Nigeria. At 84, General Olu Bajowa, OFR, CFR stands as a towering symbol of patriotism, leadership, and philanthropy.

General Bajowa’s influence transcends the military. He has consistently provided wise counsel and leadership in public service, contributing meaningfully to national development. His voice remains a beacon of reason and vision, advocating for policies that uplift the Nigerian people and preserve the nation’s unity.

Born to Lubokun Royal family, at Igbotako Osooro in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, on 27th December 1940. Prince (Rtd) Major General (Dr) Sir Joseph Oluyemi Bajowa attended Anglican Elementary School, Igbotako, Manuwa Memorial Grammar School Iju-Odo, Okitipupa, Gboluji Anglican Grammar School, Ile-Oluji, Ondo. He finished his Secondary Education at Gboluji in 1959, and later attended Federal School of Science, Lagos 1960, for his “A” Levels. He worked as a civil Servant in the then Federal Ministry of Lands and Survey in Lagos and later as a 3rd Class Clerk in the Houses of Parliament, Lagos.

Professionally, General Olu Bajowa joined the Nigerian Army as a Cadet in training at the then Military College, now Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna in September, 1960 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant at Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot, England in 1961. He was later attached to the British Army in the Rhine, Western Germany during the “Cold War”, after which he was posted to 4th Infantry Battalion of the Nigerian Army Ibadan in 1962 to start his Military Career.

He took part in the United Nations Peace keeping Operations in the Congo and the Nigerian Civil War. He climbed through the rungs of the Officer Corps to the rank of Major General and retired meritoriously from the Nigerian Army in 1980 at the age of 40 years.

Amongst the appointments held while in Military Service were Platoon Commander, Military Transport Officer, General Staff Officer Grade 111 and General Officer Grade 11 both at Army Headquarters, Ministry of Defence, Lagos, Company Commander, Brigade Major, Battalion Commander, General Staff Officer Grade 1 at 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters, Brigade Commander, Acting General Officer Commanding 3 Infantry Division of the Nigerian Army, Adjutant General of the Nigerian army, and Quarter-Master-General of the Nigerian Army both at Ministry of Defence, Lagos. He was also Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. Jaji-Kaduna, (1978-1979).

Significantly, He was on active service in Western Germany with the British Army in 1961, during the “Cold War”. He served two tours in the United Nations Operation in Congo with 4 BN NA in 1962, at Kinshasha, and in 1963 at Leopoville (now Zaire) with 1st BN NA. He took active part in the Nigerian civil War. Infact he was the one as the Commanding Officer 11 BN NA at Iwo road Ibadan, Olusegun Obasanjo ordered to move his Battalion on 9th August 1976 from Ibadan to defend the Western Region Boarder at Ofusu/Owena River bridge, to prevent the incursion of the 101st Division of the Biafran Army during its advance to capture Ibadan and Lagos and occupy Western Region, after the fall of Benin City and Mid-Western Region, in a Biafran Army lighting operation of 101st Division of the Biafran Army. He held the Ofusu/Owena Bridge and fought in the legendry Ore Battle (“Ija Ore, Oleku”). He miraculously survived four (4) coups while in military service and three (3) coups after his recall from retirement, to serve the nation in different capacities, during the Military Interregnum.

On the Military-Political Front, he was a Military Member of the Executive Council of the then Western State of Nigeria, Military Member of the Executive Council and Acting Military Governor of the Southeastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States); and also Acting Military Governor of Rivers State (now Rivers and Bayelsa States).

After retirement from the Nigerian Army, he went into business, politics and later into academics. He enrolled into the University of Lagos in 1983, where he obtained Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with Second Class Honours, Upper Division, (2.1) in 1988. He was awarded Doctor of Theology by the Theological Seminary, Durban, South Africa, in London, 2005, in affiliation with Trinity University and College, Delaware, USA and he has currently enrolled for Bachelor of Law Degree, University of London, England.

He was a Member of the Governing Council of Ondo State University (1981/1982) and in 1983 he was
appointed Chairman Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria. He was also appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of Nigeria Airways Limited in January 1988. Sole Administrator of Nigeria Airways Limited in October same year and Managing Director and Member of the Presidential Task Force of Nigeria Airways Limited (1988-1989). He was later appointed as Special Assistant in the Presidency and Co-ordinator Movement of Seat of Government and Federal Ministries from Lagos to Abuja. He was appointed the Director-General/Permanent Secretary, Deputy Minister Ministry of Defence in 1990-1993 and Permanent Secretary, Federal ministry of Industry in 1993-1997, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Science and Technology from 1997-1999, and Chairman of all related Companies and Parastatals of the Ministries.

His decorations include Medals of the United Nations Peace Keeping Operations in the Congo, The Nigerian civil war. Forces Meritorious Service Star (FSS) in 1983, and Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR), in recognition of his Military Service (1960 -1980), and gazette in 1998 for the honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR), in recognition of his Federal Civil Service (1988 – 1999). He is a Distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Security Nigeria (dfisn).

In recognition of General Olu Bajowa’s contribution to the security and development of Ikale-Land, his people honoured him with the Chieftaincy titles of Jagunmolu of Ikale-Land and Ojagbulegun from The Source (Ayeka Kingdom), and Ajagungbade of Idepe-Okitipupa, Ondo State of Nigeria. He was a Member of the Board of Governors of International Foundation for Science (IFS) in Stockholm, Sweden, and also Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy, (1997-1999). He creditably concluded his tenure as the Chairman of Programmes and Budget Committee (PBC) of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in Vienna, Austria, a post he held for one year (1997/1998).

He is a sports enthusiast, philanthropist and happily married with children. He is an author and had to his credits four (4) books, namely: Spring of a Life, Ikale, Soldier by Choice and Egbaiyelo (Legacy of a legend).

General Bajowa’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and heritage is equally commendable. As a proud custodian of tradition, he has tirelessly championed initiatives to celebrate and protect the rich cultural tapestry of his people.

As he celebrates this remarkable milestone, we reflect on a life well-lived—a life devoted to God, country, and humanity. At 84, General Olu Bajowa remains an icon of hope and inspiration, a symbol of resilience, and a beacon of wisdom.

On behalf of friends, family, and admirers across the globe, we wish General Olu Bajowa a happy 84th birthday. May your days be filled with continued joy, good health, and fulfillment. Your legacy shines brightly, and we are forever grateful for your immeasurable contributions to our nation and beyond.

DARE ADELEKAN