Portrayal of Drug-Related Crimes among Teenagers in Nollywood Movies: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Nimbe

Abstract

The fight against drug abuse among teenagers has remained a global challenge. The degree to which drug-related crimes take a bickered chunk on Nigerian children, particularly, teenagers, has also remained a subject of enquiry in recent times. The Nigerian film industry has over the years demonstrated its commitment as a viable platform for entertainment and behavioural change communication. Against this background, this study examined the portrayal of drug-related crimes among teenagers in Nollywood movies. Anchored on cultivation theory of mass media, the study critically analyzed Seun Dania's film - Nimbe, produced in 2019, to determine how drug-related crimes among teenagers were depicted in the movie. Findings of the critical discourse analysis revealed that drug-related crimes were portrayed negatively and glamorized in some instances, potentially propagating negative behaviours and attitudes towards substance abuse among teenagers while advocating for a change. The study concluded that there is the need for filmmakers in Nigeria to wield their enormous influence responsibly by creating contents that educate and empower teenagers to live healthy life styles. It was recommended among others that the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) should partner the Nollywood filmmakers in production of contents that help in the campaign against drug abuse among the vulnerable demographics, especially teenagers.