Yinka Olatunbosun
The Executive Director and CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr. Shaibu Husseini, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering a regulatory environment that balances creative freedom with cultural sensitivity. The statement came as he hosted students of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Acting Academy at the Board’s Lagos office recently.
Led by Academy Director Ms. Akaoma Onyeonoru, the visit formed part of an industry excursion designed to expose the next generation of Nollywood actors to the workings of film regulation, governance, and ethical compliance.
Welcoming the delegation, Dr. Husseini described the engagement as timely, emphasising that Nollywood’s future relies not only on creative excellence but also on regulatory discipline and cultural responsibility. He reiterated that no film should be distributed or exhibited in Nigeria without proper classification, noting that the Board plans to intensify enforcement, particularly across digital platforms.
He added that the NFVCB is working to remove unclassified Nigerian films from online platforms, in line with its mandate and Memorandum of Understanding with these services. Filmmakers were urged to comply with classification requirements, as is standard practice in developed film industries, and were reassured that registration and approvals are now processed swiftly online.
Dr. Husseini also announced the reintroduction of online classification mechanisms and the deployment of the Magpie verification system to enhance transparency, tracking, and industry compliance.
Addressing critical industry concerns, he highlighted the importance of clear disclaimers in fiction films and ongoing efforts to regulate the depiction and glamorisation of tobacco, narcotics, and ritual practices on screen. He clarified that money rituals have never been banned in films, but any such depiction must carry appropriate disclaimers and consequences.
He further explained that while festival films not intended for public distribution may not require classification, any work released to the general public must undergo statutory review. Documentary filmmakers were reminded to maintain factual accuracy and may require classification depending on distribution scope. On emerging trends, Dr. Husseini stated that the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in film production must be transparently disclosed, with indemnities executed prior to release.
Beyond regulation, he outlined plans to deepen industry development through stakeholder workshops, monetisation training, and legal compliance sessions. The Board is also exploring lower-cost licensing options for smaller cinema operators, with safeguards to prevent misuse.
Looking ahead, Dr. Husseini expressed a vision to establish a film and video library to preserve Nigeria’s cinematic heritage. He hopes to be remembered for fostering a regulatory framework that balances creative freedom with cultural sensitivity while strengthening institutional capacity and staff welfare.
The students toured the NFVCB archives and preview facilities, where classification exercises are conducted. Mrs. Chioma Obasi, Head of Media Literacy, briefed them on nationwide school outreach programmes aimed at educating young audiences on film ratings and the distinction between fiction and reality.
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