A detailed report by Punch Newspapers has revealed that veteran Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has openly criticized the lack of unity and genuine love within the Nigerian movie industry. Speaking during a testimony session at a Holy Ghost revival event in Lagos, the movie star characterized her survival and eventual return to the public eye as an absolute miracle after navigating a harrowing 13-year medical and emotional ordeal.
The actress alleged that during the lowest points of her prolonged health crisis, multiple colleagues within the Nollywood ecosystem completely abandoned her. She further claimed that some individuals went as far as actively plotting to destroy her reputation, while others shamelessly celebrated false online reports of her passing. Abubakar urged contemporary filmmakers and actors to deliberately build a culture of empathy, trust, and mutual support.
Baring her mind fully to the congregation, Abubakar declared, “They lack love, empathy, compassion. They lack trust. So many of them are so greedy. So many of them are not really what they seem to be”. Validating the emotional public return, a news report by The Sun Nigeria detailed the actress’s path toward healing, quoting her statement where she directly noted, “I allow this so that Nigerians can see where I’m coming from. And the world will watch and see how much I’ve suffered”.
### Echotitbits take
Halima Abubakar’s scathing critique shines a very bright, uncomfortable light on the dark underbelly of fame and relationships within Nollywood. The movie industry often projects an image of glamorous solidarity, but Abubakar’s personal account exposes deep-seated professional isolation. This public address will likely spark uncomfortable conversations among guild leaders regarding welfare structures for ailing veteran stars.
Source: Punch Newspapers— https://punchng.com/my-colleagues-lack-love-empathy-says-halima-abubakar-after-13-year-ordeal/, July 18, 2026
Photo Credit: The Guardian
