Nollywood producer and actress Funke Akindele has challenged Nigerian youths to abandon quick-money schemes and embrace hard work instead. She shared her personal journey during a recent interview, revealing she deliberately chose the difficult path over illicit earnings.
Akindele recalled her university days at the University of Lagos, when she rented out bed spaces to survive. "I could have been wayward to earn a living but I decided to follow the right path," she told Bella Naija.
The actress said she worked multiple hustles to stay afloat, sacrificing comfort and personal well-being in pursuit of legitimate income. She credited this disciplined approach to her current success and character.
"I am a hustler," she declared. "That's why you see that I am so 'handsome.' I am very firm because life taught me."
Akindele stressed that young people shouldn't depend solely on their educational certificates. She emphasised the need to build practical expertise alongside formal qualifications.
"Skills acquisition is very important," she said. "As a young woman or man, you have to acquire skills so that when there is no job, you can use your skill to make money for yourself."
Her message reflected frustration with Nigeria's unemployment crisis and the culture of seeking shortcuts. The veteran filmmaker positioned herself as proof that persistence and skill-building eventually yield rewards.
Akindele's comments come as many young Nigerians struggle with joblessness and economic hardship. Her testimony offers an alternative narrative to the desperation driving some towards illegal activities.
