In a recent interview, the 48-year-old mother of two disclosed that she deliberately denied herself social life and leisure activities in order to build her brand and career. Akindele explained that she spent three years isolated in Amen Estate, focusing on developing the Jenifa franchise and producing several other content projects that have now become pillars of her success.
“Hard work is hard work,” she said. “You work hard, putting in the work when you need to, depriving yourself of things many will go after so as to achieve the success you are aiming for.”
Akindele added that during those years, she avoided vacations, parties, events, and even friendships, choosing instead to work closely with her team to create and build lasting content. She credited this period of intense focus for the success she enjoys today.
She also described her hands-on approach to filmmaking, noting that she does not act like a diva on set. According to Akindele, she is fully involved in every aspect of production, often appearing without glamor or makeup, working tirelessly to ensure everything is perfect before the marketing and promotional phase begins.
“When I am on the set of my films, I am not a diva, I am everywhere and very hands-on, no wig, just on my rough corn rows, working hard and seeing that everything is in perfect order,” she said.
Akindele’s hard work has been reflected in her record-breaking achievements. She made history in 2024 by producing the first Nigerian film to gross over ₦1 billion in cinemas, and has since surpassed that milestone with the first Nigerian film to gross over ₦2 billion.
Her testimony highlights the discipline and commitment behind her continued success and serves as an example of how focused dedication can translate into lasting impact in the entertainment industry.