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“Her Excellency” is one of those films that tries to strike a balance between cultural homage and contemporary social commentary—and while it doesn’t fully hit the mark in every area, it still manages to leave a lasting impression. As a longtime follower of Nollywood and an admirer of veterans like Adebayo “Oga Bello” Salami, I went into the cinema with mixed expectations: excitement for the legacy behind the project, and cautious curiosity about how the themes would translate to a modern audience. By the end of the film, I found myself both moved and frustrated—a rare but telling combination.
The movie is clearly a labor of love from Salami, whose 60-year journey in Nollywood gives the film its soul. Her Excellency is not just a story about politics or marital struggles—it is, more importantly, a statement. A statement about how we as a society treat female leadership, about the invisible burdens women carry in relationships, and about the dignity that comes with mutual respect. What I appreciated most was how these themes were wrapped in cultural textures that reflect Yoruba tradition while still being accessible to a broader Nigerian audience.
Sola Sobowale shines in her role, delivering the emotional gravitas and sharp presence that has come to define her career. Watching her navigate both the domestic and political spheres was deeply satisfying, and I felt that her portrayal gave weight to the film’s central message: a woman’s power does not need to come at the expense of her femininity, nor should it be diluted to soothe patriarchal expectations. Her chemistry with the supporting cast—especially actors like Femi Adebayo and Odunlade Adekola—added a layer of believability to what might otherwise have been a stiff or idealized narrative.
However, where the film falters is in its storytelling discipline. The script tends to repeat known tropes: the powerful woman scorned, the husband struggling with his wife’s rising profile, and the political machinations that feel a bit too familiar. These themes are valid, even urgent—but the execution lacked the sharpness or originality that could have elevated the narrative. I found myself at times predicting how scenes would unfold, and that predictability dulled the emotional impact.
Moreover, the pacing was uneven. Some scenes dragged on, particularly in the second act, making the overall rhythm feel sluggish. This is the kind of story that would have benefitted from tighter editing—keeping only the most emotionally or politically charged moments and trimming the rest. The result would have been a more powerful and resonant viewing experience.
That said, the film’s aesthetic choices were stunning. The costumes, set designs, and cultural symbolism were visually rich, especially in scenes that depicted traditional Yoruba ceremonies or government functions. However, I agree with younger viewers who felt that sometimes the glam overshadowed the substance. While the visuals were impressive, they couldn’t always compensate for the story’s lack of narrative risk.
In conclusion, Her Excellency is a commendable effort that offers something rare in Nollywood today: a female-centered political drama that dares to be both emotional and ideological. It pays tribute to tradition while attempting to speak to the present moment. It may not be groundbreaking in its storytelling, but it certainly succeeds in opening up important conversations. For that reason, I consider it a valuable addition to the 2025 Nollywood lineup. If you're looking for a film that is reflective, passionate, and culturally grounded—even if a bit uneven—Her Excellency is worth your time.
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