Celebrated filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele is set to feature the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service in her highly anticipated film Everybody Loves Jenifa, a move that not only fulfills a promise she made last month but also underscores her commitment to using her platform for social good.
The exciting collaboration was revealed by Jubril Gawat, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Lagos State governor, who shared the news on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Saturday. Gawat posted a video clip showcasing behind-the-scenes moments from the film set, highlighting the involvement of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service. In his post, Gawat wrote, “Renowned Nollywood Actress and CEO of Funke Akindele Network (FAAN), @funkeakindele features Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service @LagosRescue in her upcoming movie as promised. She made the promise when she visited the agency last month.”
This collaboration stems from a courtesy visit that Akindele paid to the fire service’s office in Alausa, Lagos, in July. During the visit, the actress expressed her admiration for the agency’s work and shared her desire to collaborate on projects that could help reduce fire outbreaks in the state. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness about fire safety and prevention through her films, which have a broad reach and significant influence on the public.
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In response, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service welcomed the opportunity to work with Akindele, recognizing the potential impact of using popular media to educate the public on fire hazards and promote proactive measures. The agency noted that this partnership aligns perfectly with their mission to enhance public safety and prevent fire-related incidents across the state.
Incorporating the fire service into Everybody Loves Jenifa is a strategic move that aims to weave critical messages about fire prevention into the fabric of entertainment, making it accessible and engaging for a wide audience. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Akindele to use her storytelling skills to address pressing social issues, adding depth and relevance to her already beloved *Jenifa* franchise.
Everybody Loves Jenifa is a spinoff from the wildly popular Jenifa series, which has become a cultural phenomenon in Nigeria and beyond. The upcoming film is set to premiere in December, as announced by Akindele on her Instagram page in April. Fans of the franchise are eagerly awaiting its release, especially with the added dimension of the collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.
This partnership not only highlights Akindele’s versatility as a filmmaker but also her dedication to making a difference in her community. By featuring real-life heroes from the fire service in her film, she is helping to amplify their message and potentially save lives through the power of cinema.
As the premiere date approaches, the buzz around Everybody Loves Jenifa continues to grow, with fans and critics alike anticipating how this unique collaboration will play out on screen. With Funke Akindele at the helm, the film is sure to deliver both entertainment and valuable lessons, reinforcing her status as one of Nollywood’s most influential and socially conscious filmmakers.
With additional information by QED
