Funmi Awelewa, affectionately known as Morili Omo Ibadan, is a dynamic Nigerian actress, producer, fashion designer, and philanthropist celebrated for her comedic roles and captivating performances in Yoruba cinema.
With her infectious energy and entrepreneurial spirit, she has become a household name in Nollywood, particularly in the Yoruba-speaking regions, while also inspiring fans through her social media presence and humanitarian efforts.
Funmi Awelewa Biography
| Real Name | Funmi Awelewa Babalola |
| Nickname | Morili Omo Ibadan, Morili Sneh |
| Famous As | Actress, Producer, Fashion Designer, Philanthropist |
| Birthplace | Ayeye, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Ethnicity | Yoruba |
| Education | University of Ibadan |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches |
| Parents | Mr. Awelewa and Mrs. Orijafumni |
| Siblings | Abike (Oriade) |
| Spouse | Oluwatosin Adexteecy |
| Children | Taju |
| Relationship | Married |
Early Life and Education
Funmi Awelewa (born on October 12, 1993, 32 years old) is from Ayeye, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, and comes from a supportive Yoruba family. Raised by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Awelewa, she grew up in a vibrant household where her mother, Mrs. Orijafumni, sold traditional herbal medicine and provided unwavering support for her dreams.
Her father passed away before her acting career began, a loss that shaped her resilience. Funmi, the second-to-last child, shares a close bond with her younger sister, Abike (known as Oriade), a social media influencer and chef often mistaken for her twin due to their striking resemblance.
Funmi attended Francis M Nursery and Primary School in Bodija, Ibadan, followed by Orogun Grammar School in Akinyele, Oyo State, where she earned her West African Senior Secondary School Certificate.
She pursued higher education at the prestigious University of Ibadan, graduating with a Diploma and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Library, Archival, and Information Studies. Her academic background, combined with her passion for storytelling, laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted career in entertainment.
Career
Funmi Awelewa entered Nollywood in 2013, guided by veteran actress Sola Kosoko, who cast her in the 2014 drama series So So Kenke. Her breakthrough came in 2015 with her second self-produced film, Aromimawe, which showcased her comedic flair and earned her widespread recognition.
In 2018, she produced Omo Ibadan, a blockbuster that cemented her nickname “Morili Omo Ibadan,” meaning “I see a child of Ibadan.” The film’s viral success made her a beloved figure in Yoruba cinema.
Funmi has starred in and produced numerous films, including Looking for Baami (2019), Ewon Ife (2021), and Jankariwo, and is known for her ability to deliver humorous yet relatable characters.
In 2023, she made her directorial debut with A Wish, a deeply personal film about her mother’s visual impairment, which was filmed in her childhood neighbourhoods in Ibadan.
Beyond acting, Funmi is a fashion designer who creates outfits for colleagues and a social media influencer, promoting brands like Glow Envy, her beauty and skincare line.
Her collaborations with stars like Funke Akindele, her role model, and Muyideen Ayinde highlight her versatility and influence in Nollywood.
Filmography
- So So Kenke (2014)
- Aromimawe (2015, Producer)
- Omo Ibadan (2018, Producer)
- Looking for Baami (2019)
- Ewon Ife (2021)
- Jankariwo (2021)
- A Wish (2023, Director and Producer)
- NatashaGbakoje (Producer)
- Morili Bilisi (Producer)
Social Media
- Instagram Handle: @funmiawelewa
- Facebook Handle: Funmi Awelewa
- Twitter Handle: @funmi_awelewa
Personal Life
Funmi Awelewa is married to Oluwatosin Adexteecy, a fashion designer from Ekiti State, whom she wed in a private traditional ceremony in April 2021. The couple has no children, though Funmi briefly adopted a five-year-old boy named Taju in 2018 after his viral video touched her heart.
Taju is now under the care of the Oyo State government. Funmi keeps her personal life relatively private, once debunking rumours of a relationship with actor Ibrahim Chatta, emphasizing their professional friendship.
Her love for tall, dark, and handsome men, as shared in a Punch interview, adds a playful charm to her persona. Residing in Lagos, she balances her career with her commitment to family and charity, inspiring fans with her authenticity and resilience.
Net Worth
Funmi Awelewa’s estimated net worth is approximately $300,000, derived from her successful acting and producing career, fashion design ventures, brand endorsements through her Glow Envy skincare line, and her social media influence.
FAQs
Is Funmi Awelewa a twin?
Funmi Awelewa Morili is not a twin.
Is Funmi Awelewa married?
Funmi Awelewa is married to Oluwatosin Adexteecy, a fashion designer from Ekiti State.
