She is a prolific creative force and versatile artist who delights in crafting works that impart profound moral lessons. Deriving immense satisfaction from using her creativity to help shape a more humane and equitable society, Funmilayo Omikunle stands as a distinguished Nigerian Nollywood writer, actor, and film producer whose creative journey bridges education, tradition, and contemporary storytelling. Beginning her artistic career toward the close of a successful teaching profession, Omikunle brings a distinctive philosophy to filmmaking—one that understands teaching itself as a form of performance. This perspective has shaped a body of work that is both instructive and deeply engaging, seamlessly weaving moral lessons into compelling narratives. A delightful personality and a formidable creative presence in Nollywood, Omikunle has produced nearly fifty films, many of which draw inspiration from traditional knowledge systems, particularly the Ifa oracle, regarded by the Yoruba as a repository of wisdom and cultural knowledge. Rather than presenting tradition as static, her films reimagine its insights to address the moral and social challenges of contemporary society.

Her productions include Maleeka (2022), Madami (2022), The Secret Behind Our Marriage (2023), and Oranlola (2025). Driven by a deep passion for social responsibility, Omikunle’s contributions to the Nigerian film industry stand as a powerful testament to cinema’s ability to educate, preserve culture, and inspire positive change. Funmilayo Omikunle spoke with Kolawole Olaiya of Nollywood In Review on the set of her new film in Ikorodu, Lagos, in July 2025. This conversation will be of particular interest to lovers of Nigerian cinema, as well as film students and scholars.