Nigerian actor and filmmaker Tobi Makinde has finally set the record straight on the long-standing rumours linking him to Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele, and according to him, there’s really nothing dramatic behind it.

In a recent chat with BBC News Pidgin, Tobi Makinde addressed the speculation head-on, explaining that his relationship with Funke Akindele has always been strictly professional. Having worked closely with her on several projects, including popular productions under her banner, he said people often misinterpret proximity and mentorship as something more.

He didn’t sound defensive, just matter-of-fact. For him, it’s simple: she’s someone he respects deeply, a mentor figure who gave him opportunities and helped sharpen his craft, but nothing beyond that.

Beyond clearing the air, Makinde opened up about the less glamorous side of his journey, the part many people don’t see.

He revealed that his acting career didn’t start overnight. According to him, he stepped into the industry at just seven years old, navigating auditions, rejections, and long periods of uncertainty while trying to find his footing. Like many young actors, staying consistent wasn’t always easy. There were moments when opportunities dried up, and he had to question what next.

Those early struggles, he explained, shaped his mindset. Instead of waiting endlessly for roles, he began to think beyond acting alone.

Now, Makinde is focused on building something of his own. From producing to developing original projects, he’s gradually carving out a space where he has more control over his work and creative direction. It’s a shift from being just in front of the camera to also making decisions behind it.