Daniel Etim

From Actor to Auteur: Daniel Etim-Effiong Makes Directorial Leap with ‘The Herd’

Nollywood’s beloved actor Daniel Etim-Effiong is stepping into new territory as he makes his directorial debut with “The Herd,” a highly anticipated film set to hit Nigerian cinemas on October 17, 2025. The project marks an exciting transition for the screen star, who’s now wielding the director’s megaphone in this collaborative venture between FilmOne Studios, ToriTori Films, Serendipity HHC, and Airscape.

The film’s journey to the big screen kicked off with a bang through a series of star-studded industry events. An exclusive dinner, orchestrated in partnership with Filmhouse Group, That Good Media, Nigerian International Film Summit (NIFS), and Legend Hotel, set the stage for what was to come. The subsequent Lagos premiere turned into a veritable who’s who of Nollywood, drawing powerhouse talents like Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Kate Henshaw, Kunle Remi, and media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, alongside influential filmmakers and media executives.

At the premiere, Filmhouse Group’s CEO Kene Okwuosa emphasized their unwavering support for Nigerian cinema. “We are incredibly proud of Daniel and the entire team behind The Herd,” he declared, highlighting the group’s role as both co-producers through FilmOne Studios and distributors via FilmOne Entertainment. “Filmhouse Group remains committed to raising the standard of Nigerian cinema and ensuring that exceptional stories like this reach audiences far and wide.”

For Etim-Effiong, this directorial venture represents more than just a career shift. “The Herd is a story that’s deeply close to my heart,” he shared with evident passion. “Stepping behind the camera for the first time has been humbling and rewarding. I’m grateful to our partners, crew, and cast who brought the vision to life.”

With FilmOne Entertainment handling distribution, “The Herd” is poised to make its nationwide theatrical debut on October 17, 2025, marking what could be the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Nollywood’s evolution.