Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has publicly extended a gesture of reconciliation to her longtime colleague and industry rival, Funke Akindele.
In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Sunday, April 21, 2024, accompanied by a photo of Akindele, Abraham reflected on the intense competition they experienced in the Yoruba movie industry years ago.
Abraham recalled how the fierce competition for the top spot created divisions and enmity among actors, fueled further by professional gossip and hearsay that sowed discord within the industry.
Reflecting on their continued rivalry in the English-speaking sector of Nollywood, Abraham acknowledged their competitive nature as Virgo women who strive for success. She expressed a newfound realization that competition can be healthy without descending into negativity.
Addressing Akindele directly, Abraham celebrated her achievements, particularly her box office success exceeding 1 billion, which she credited with inspiring other women in the industry. Abraham expressed admiration for Akindele’s dedication to her craft and her impact on empowering women to strive harder.
She wrote, “In the English industry, Aunty Funke and I continued the rivalry sort of. It pitted our fans against each other. We are two competitive Virgo women, we love to win and sometimes in that process, we splash dirt and mud. But with time, age, and more wisdom, I have realized we can compete without being negatively competitive.
“Aunty Funke, I celebrate you for showing us what is possible. You are a winner. You sold over 1B, you made it possible for other women to dream. You ran us street with that 1B o, this year, many of us will move to 1B and we pray God makes you bigger. Thank you for making great movies and selling them like your life depends on it. You taught other women to hustle harder.
“I had set records in box office records, Aunty came and beat them, today I am happy because she has challenged me to set higher goals. Sis, let’s compliment each other even in competition at the box office, I owe you one post in December (only 1 o, I need to sell market…Lol). I pray that God will make all your dreams come true. I admire you and wish you all the best.”