Screen goddess, Funke Akindele, has reacted to the praises heaped on her by the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; and former two-term Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, over her movie: “A tribe called Judah.”
The Eagle Online is reporting that as of last week, the movie had hit a box office record of over N1 billion.
Several dignitaries had reacted to the record grossed by the movie, which is showing at present in cinemas across the country and abroad.
Among them were Sanwo-Olu, Abubakar and Obi.
Commenting on the movie on his X handle, Obi had written: “It is heartwarming to learn that ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ a movie by Nigerian Movie Producer, @funkeakindele, has achieved a record-breaking earning of N1 billion, in just 3 weeks of its release, thus marking a historic moment in our Nigerian movie industry.
“Nollywood remains one of the biggest exports of our country in the last decade and shows the inherent potential in our people which Akindele has copiously brought out in all her works. I congratulate Funke Akindele for achieving this feat which is a bold testament to her passion, hard work, and dedication in the movie industry. It is reported that her previous movies ‘Battle on Buka Street’ and ‘Omo Ghetto’ currently sit as the second and third highest-grossing films at the Nigerian box office respectively.
“The latest movie touches on some of the complex challenges faced by many less privileged families in Nigeria, in their struggles for survival. It skillfully tells a story that appeals to its audience in a comic and entertaining delivery.
“Our creative and entertainment industry has continued to grow over the years, showing our unlimited supply of talent in the industry. I encourage them to continue to tell stories that will inspire hard work, integrity, and productivity among Nigerians.
“This, I believe, will play a significant role in positioning our minds for the productivity-driven nation we are trying to build – The New Nigeria!”
For Abubakar, he wrote on his X handle: “I extend my heartiest congratulations to @funkeakindele for the phenomenal success of ‘A Tribe Called Judah’. This film has not only shattered box office records by becoming the first Nigerian movie to earn 1 billion naira in domestic theatres, but it also stands as a beacon of cultural pride and the unyielding spirit of Nollywood.
“‘A Tribe Called Judah’ is not just a film; it is a cultural gem that reflects the vibrancy and resilience of Nigerian cinema.
“As a nation, we are incredibly proud of Funke’s achievements and her role in elevating Nigerian cinema to new heights. Her success is our success, and it inspires a new generation of filmmakers and storytellers in Nigeria and beyond.
“Congratulations, Funke, on this historic milestone. You have set a new standard for excellence, and your work inspires us all.”
Sanwo-Olu, who Akindele contested with the governorship seat of Lagos State in the 2023 election as running mate of the Labour Party candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, said on his X handle also: “Congratulations to @funkeakindele on the success of her record breaking film, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ which crossed the One Billion Naira mark recently.
“With this milestone, she leads the record of highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time in Nigerian cinemas with 3 titles. A great feat, indeed.
“As a female led initiative, it also showcases the power and influence women wield in the film industry, inspiring countless others to aim for greatness. A big well done to the cast: Timini Egbuson, Jide Kene Achufusi, Uzee Usman, Tobi Makinde, Olumide Oworu, Genoveva Umeh, Nse Ikpe Etim, Juliana Olayode, Uzor Arukwe, Fathia Balogun, Yvonne Jegede and many others as well as the outstanding crew.
“Celebrating the magic of Lagos’ creative industry, we also celebrate @toyin_abraham1, Mercy Aigbe, and all the passionate minds behind captivating movies like ‘Malaika,’ and ‘Ada, Omo Daddy.’ Your artistry is diversifying our economy and inspiring greatness.
“We also celebrate outstanding titles that have made it to the streaming platforms and international movie festivals showcasing the excellence and progression of Nollywood.
“The Lagos government is the biggest supporter of the creative industry in Africa and we will continue to do more.
“Here’s looking forward to even bigger things in 2024.”
Reacting to the comments of the three eminent personalities, Akindele thanked them.
To Sanwo-Olu, she tweeted: “Thank you so much My Governor.
“I truly appreciate this Your Excellency.”
To Obi, she wrote: “Thank you so much for your kind words Sir.
“I truly appreciate sir.”
And for Abubakar, she said on her X handle in response: “Thank you so much Your Excellency sir.
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“I appreciate sir.”
However, The Eagle Online was yet to see Akindele’s response to the praise heaped on her for the movie by President Bola Tinubu.
The President had reacted to the mark made by Akindele in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale.
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