Nollywood star Funke Akindele turned 48 on Sunday, the 24th of August, 2025, and social media overflowed with tributes from colleagues, protégés, and fans who celebrated her influence, mentorship, and personal bonds.
Best known for her comic creation Jenifa and the television series and films it inspired, Akindele has long been admired as a role model in Nollywood.
Yet, this year’s tributes reached beyond her career to highlight her loyalty as a friend and her role as a guiding force for younger entertainers.
Skitmaker and actor Akinyoola Ayoola, fondly called Kamo State, and regarded as Akindele’s adopted son, struck an emotional chord with a viral birthday post. He sang for her and fondly addressed her as “Grandma Sonia” and “OLUFUNKE Ayotunde.”
He wrote: “Happy Birthday Grandma Sonia, lyami Olufunke Ayotunde…Words can’t express how much I appreciate you. You’ve always been more than just a godmother to me, you’ve been a source of strength, love, and unwavering support. Thank you for the countless ways you’ve shown me kindness, for believing in me, and for always being there, no matter what. I’m incredibly grateful for your presence in my life…Enjoy your day, lya Beji, Alase gbogbo FaanTV, JENIFA Kan, Lefty Miii.”
Actor Tobi Makinde described her as a “true trailblazer, luminary and exemplar of excellence,” praying for her “greater strength, peace, and overflowing joy.”
Longtime friend Eniola Badmus, writing on Instagram, called her “more than just a friend,” adding that Akindele is her “playmate, my gist partner, my safe place.” She wrote, “Thank you for all the memories and for making life so much brighter. I pray this new year brings you endless joy, success, and blessings.”
Gospel singer Tope Alabi added her voice, saying, “Happy birthday my dear sister your new age is blessed in Jesus name. More fruitful years. I love you dearly.”
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Fans across platforms also joined in the celebrations.
Messages poured in with photos, clips, and heartfelt notes. “Lafunky 🔥Happy birthday ma,” wrote @Cutieakanke, while @Susantemitope gushed, “Happy birthday my beautiful woman llnp sweet woman💕💕💕💕💕.”
Amid the flood of tributes, Akindele surprised her fans with news of her latest project.
In her own birthday message, she said, “It’s my birthday today, and I feel so fulfilled. I’m graciously grateful to God for the grace to keep telling our stories… I’m using this special day to reveal my blockbuster movie, which premieres in December 2025, Behind The Scenes.”
From the laughter of Jenifa to shaping Nollywood’s future, Funke Akindele’s 48th birthday carried not only warm tributes but also a promise of more stories to come.