Nollywood star Daniel Etim-Effiong has made an impressive leap into directing as his debut feature film, The Herd, raked in ₦30.1 million during its first week at the Nigerian box office.
According to data from the Nigerian Box Office, the crime thriller grossed ₦28.8 million between October 17 and 19, 2025, before reaching ₦30.1 million by the end of its debut week — one of the strongest openings for a Nollywood film in the latter half of 2025. The milestone firmly establishes Etim-Effiong’s successful transition from actor to filmmaker.
Co-produced by FilmOne Studios, ToriTori Films, Serendipity HHC, and Airscape, The Herd explores themes of love, family, and generational change set in South West Nigeria. Blending crime, psychology, and drama, the film highlights the emotional and social tensions that shape contemporary Nigerian life, adding depth to Nollywood’s growing catalogue of sophisticated storytelling.
Star-Studded Premiere and Industry Buzz
Before its nationwide release, The Herd generated significant anticipation through a series of high-profile promotional events. An exclusive pre-release dinner — hosted in partnership with Filmhouse Group, That Good Media, the Nigerian International Film Summit (NIFS), and Legend Hotel — set the stage for its Lagos premiere.
The red carpet event drew an array of Nollywood heavyweights, including Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Kate Henshaw, Kunle Remi, and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, alongside producers, distributors, and top entertainment executives.
Early Global Recognition
Earlier in May 2025, a shorter version of The Herd was screened at the Marché du Film during the Cannes Film Festival, signaling its international potential. Etim-Effiong also participated in a panel discussion titled “The Nollywood Conversations: A Deep Dive into Opportunities to Present African Stories for Global Screens,” organized by FilmOne Entertainment and NIFS.
The screening and panel appearance showcased Nollywood’s expanding presence on the global stage and Etim-Effiong’s role in shaping the next generation of African filmmakers.
Strong Start, Bright Future
With an impressive opening and international exposure, The Herd is positioned as one of 2025’s standout Nollywood releases. The film continues the upward box office trend set by titles such as Gingerrr and Ori: The Rebirth, signaling growing audience appetite for homegrown cinematic excellence.
About Daniel Etim-Effiong
Daniel Etim-Effiong is a celebrated Nigerian actor, director, and filmmaker known for his range and depth on screen. A graduate of Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos, he later trained in film directing and production at AFDA Film School in Cape Town, South Africa.
After his breakout role as Folarin in NdaniTV’s hit web series Gidi Up (2013), Etim-Effiong became a familiar face in Nollywood, appearing in popular titles such as Skinny Girl in Transit, The Men’s Club, Plan B, From Lagos with Love, Fishbone, Chief Daddy, Oloture, and The Wedding Party.
Beyond acting, Etim-Effiong leads ToriTori Media, his storytelling company focused on authentic African narratives and social impact. With The Herd, he cements his reputation as one of Nollywood’s most versatile and visionary creatives — both in front of and behind the camera.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
