Funke Akindele Honored as One of The Hollywood Reporter’s Most Influential Women in International Film.

Nigerian actress, writer, director, and producer Funke Akindele has been named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s “Most Influential Women in International Film,” a prestigious list that recognizes 46 visionary women making a major impact on the global film industry.

The announcement was made on Friday, May 9, marking a significant milestone in Akindele’s career. She is celebrated for her record-breaking Nollywood films such as Omo Ghetto: The Saga and A Tribe Called Judah, as well as her popular television series Jenifa’s Diary. These successes have established her as one of Nigeria’s most bankable and influential entertainment figures.

Reacting to the honor on her Instagram page, Akindele expressed deep gratitude and humility. She wrote:

“I’m deeply honoured and truly grateful to be featured in The Hollywood Reporter’s ‘The Most Influential Women in International Film.’ To be recognised among 46 powerful, visionary women from around the world is more than a moment of celebration-it’s a call to keep building, creating boldly, and lifting others as we rise.”

Beyond celebrating her personal achievement, Akindele sees this recognition as motivation to continue telling impactful stories and supporting others in the creative industry.

She also congratulated fellow Nigerian media mogul and honoree Mo Abudu, praising her as a source of inspiration and a key contributor to the growth of the creative industry in Nigeria and Africa. Akindele said:

“A heartfelt congratulations to Aunty MO @moabudu who has also been featured in this great piece. Thank you so much, Ma, for your invaluable contribution to the creative industry. It’s an honor to be featured alongside someone who has been such a powerful source of inspiration.”

Mo Abudu, founder of EbonyLife Media, was also recognized on the list for her role in producing Nollywood blockbusters and fostering international partnerships, further highlighting the global rise of African cinema.

Funke Akindele’s inclusion on this global list underscores her influence as a creative force dedicated to owning and empowering Nigerian narratives through film and television. As CEO of the Funke Akindele Network (FAAN), she champions authentic storytelling that resonates both locally and internationally.

This recognition places Funke Akindele among the world’s leading women in film, celebrating her contributions to Nollywood and the wider international film community. It also shines a spotlight on the growing influence of African filmmakers on the global stage.

Funke Akindele’s honor as one of The Hollywood Reporter’s Most Influential Women in International Film celebrates her outstanding achievements and leadership in Nollywood. Alongside fellow Nigerian Mo Abudu, she represents the powerful voices shaping African cinema’s future and inspiring the next generation of storytellers worldwide.

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