The Executive Director/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 as he hosted students of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Acting Academy at the Board’s Lagos office.
The visit, led by the Academy Director, Ms Akaoma Onyeonoru, formed part of an industry excursion designed to expose the next generation of Nollywood actors to the mechanics of film regulation, governance, and ethical compliance.
Welcoming the delegation, Dr Husseini described the engagement as timely, stressing that the future of Nollywood depends 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, stressing that the Board is set to intensify enforcement, particularly on digital platforms.
He disclosed that the NFVCB is working towards removing unclassified Nigerian films from digital platforms, in line with the Board’s mandate and its Memorandum of Understanding with the platforms. Filmmakers were therefore urged to comply with classification requirements, as is done in even developed societies, noting that steps have been taken in the present dispensation to ensure that registration and approvals are granted speedily when submissions meet regulatory standards. He emphasised that the entire process can now be completed online, eliminating the need for physical visits.
Dr Husseini also revealed that the Board is reintroducing online classification mechanisms and deploying the Magpie verification system to enhance transparency, tracking, and compliance within the industry.
The Board’s Head of Media Literacy, Mrs Chioma Obasi, briefed them on nationwide school outreach programmes aimed at educating young audiences on film ratings and the distinction between fiction and reality.
The session concluded with an interactive engagement during which students posed questions on licensing, censorship processes, and career pathways within the regulatory ecosystem.
Dr Husseini expressed his desire to be remembered for fostering a regulatory environment that balances creative freedom with cultural sensitivity, while strengthening institutional capacity and staff welfare.
The visit ended on a celebratory note, with the students expressing appreciation for the Board’s hospitality. Tokens of appreciation were exchanged between the Acting Academy and the NFVCB leadership.
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