Nigerian actress Bunmi Nelson has expressed regret over underestimating fellow actress Funke Akindele early in their careers.
Nelson made the revelation during an interview with actress Biola Adebayo on the Talk to B podcast, recalling her interactions with Akindele around 2006 and 2007.
According to Nelson, Akindele once approached her for a house to use as a filming location and also encouraged her to join the Yoruba movie industry. However, she admitted that she took the opportunity for granted and often ignored Akindele’s calls.
“I didn’t see Funke going far. That’s why in life, don’t underestimate anybody. Don’t look down on anyone,” Nelson said.
“If I knew Funke would go far like this, I would have held her tight because I can’t even see her back now.”
Nelson said the experience taught her the importance of humility and urged people not to dismiss others based on their circumstances at the time.
Akindele later rose to prominence with the 2008 hit film Jenifa, earning the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 2009. She has since become one of Nollywood’s leading actresses and filmmakers.
Reflecting on the missed opportunity, Nelson said she had learned her lesson and was now more humble because, in her words, “nothing is constant.”
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