How Nollywood Is Using Film to Confront Nigeria’s Insecurity Challenges

Nigeria’s insecurity crisis continues to shape national conversations, and Nollywood is increasingly stepping into that space with stories that reflect the lived realities of millions. The latest example is The Herd, a tense crime drama directed by Daniel Etim Effiong, which has already sparked discussions about kidnapping, banditry, and the human cost of violence in the country.

Below is a look at The Herd and other recent Nigerian films that tackle insecurity through character-driven storytelling and social commentary.

The Herd (2025)

Director: Daniel Etim Effiong

Writer: Lani Aisida

Release Date: October 17, 2025

The Herd follows Gosi, a young man who travels to Ekiti for his best friend Derin’s wedding while his wife, Adamma, stays behind due to an illness. What begins as a joyful celebration takes a dark turn when Gosi, the newlyweds, and other guests are ambushed by bandits posing as cattle herdsmen.

The attack is led by Halil (Abba Zaky), the head of a breakaway group, who orders his lieutenant Anas (Ibrahim Abubakar) to round up the travellers and disappear into the forest. Meanwhile, Garba (Adam Garba), a DSS officer whose wife has just given birth, is urgently called back to lead the anti-kidnapping response.

With a star-studded cast including Daniel Etim-Effiong, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Kunle Remi, Genoveva Umeh, Norbert Young, Tina Mba, Mercy Aigbe, Deyemi Okanlawon, Abdulateef Adedimeji and more, the film mixes suspense with emotional depth. Its release has resonated with audiences because it mirrors the rise in highway kidnappings and the fear that has become part of everyday life in many communities.

Other Nollywood Titles That Spotlight Insecurity

Nollywood has a long history of engaging with social issues. In recent years, several films have tried to humanize victims, expose systemic failures, and show the resilience of ordinary Nigerians affected by violence.

1. Gwoza (2025)

Director(s): Akinyemi Sebastian Akinropo / Taiwo Omole

Writer: Taiwo Omole

Release Date: July 7, 2025

Set against the backdrop of insurgency in northern Nigeria, Gwoza tells the story of Bami, a woman who once fled a forced marriage and rebuilt her life in Lagos. When terrorists attack her hometown, she returns, loses her husband, and risks everything to rescue a kidnapped girl.

The film explores courage, trauma, and healing, with strong performances from Meg Otanwa, Udoka Oyeka, Okechukwu Ukeje, and Ini Dima-Okojie. It sheds light on the emotional wreckage left behind by insurgency—and the quiet strength of those who choose to fight back.

2. Soole (2021)

Director/Writer: Kayode Kasum

Release Date: November 26, 2021

Though largely positioned as a comedy-drama, Soole folds a story about insecurity into its road-trip adventure. A bus full of travellers heading home for Christmas gets caught in a dangerous clash with criminals along the highway.

With actors like Sola Sobowale, Adunni Ade, Lateef Adedimeji, Mike Afolarin, and Eso Dike, the film mixes humour with moments that reflect the risks of road travel in Nigeria. It also highlights how ordinary people respond when danger comes unexpectedly.

3. The Trade (2023)

Director/Writer: Jadesola Osiberu

Release Date: January 13, 2023

Inspired by real events, The Trade focuses on Eric, a notorious kidnapper who terrorizes communities in southern Nigeria for years. When a new job brings law enforcement closer than ever before, his empire begins to unravel.

Starring Blossom Chukwujekwu, Rita Dominic, Ali Nuhu, Stan Nze, Shawn Faqua and others, the film paints a disturbing but honest portrait of the kidnapping epidemic—its masterminds, victims, and the officers trying to stop the cycle.

Why These Stories Matter

Nigeria’s insecurity issues are not abstract. They affect travel, family life, business, mental health, and the sense of safety people deserve. Films like The Herd, Gwoza, Soole, and The Trade give audiences a way to see these issues up close, from different angles:

1. Victims and survivors navigating trauma

2. Communities trying to stay hopeful

3. Officers and responders under immense pressure

4. Criminal networks that thrive on instability

These stories help spark conversations, encourage empathy, and bring attention to problems that need urgent solutions. Nollywood may not have all the answers, but it plays a powerful role in keeping these issues visible.