The federal government has announced that distributing skits, films, or music videos without obtaining proper classification from the National Films and Videos Censors Board (NFVCB) is now considered an offense.
Shaibu Husseini, the board’s executive director, emphasized the necessity of enhancing video content classification standards in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 26, Husseini detailed the NFVCB’s initiatives to establish a world-class classification center and issued a stern warning to content creators about the legal ramifications of releasing unclassified material.
The NFVCB is collaborating with security agencies to identify and prosecute filmmakers and content creators who fail to comply with these regulations. Husseini stated:
“It is an offense to distribute or exhibit any film or video content, including skits and musical videos, on any platform without classification by the National Film and Video Censors Board. The board is working with relevant security agencies to track individuals and production companies involved, ensuring they face the full extent of the law.”
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This crackdown aims to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s media landscape and ensure that all content distributed to the public adheres to national standards.
In addition to enforcing classification rules, the NFVCB has condemned the promotion and distribution of same-sex content on social media.
The board reminded filmmakers and content creators that public exhibition of same-sex relationships is illegal in Nigeria. This stance reflects broader societal and legal norms within the country.
The NFVCB issues certificates of censorship for all films and video works reviewed by its in-house committee. Each certificate indicates the classification or rating, which helps guide viewers on the suitability of content for different audiences. The classification symbols and ratings include:
- G: General exhibition
- PG: Parental guidance recommended for children
- C: Content specifically for children
- 12: Not recommended for children under 12 years
- 12A: No one under 12 may enter a cinema unless accompanied by an adult
- 15: Not recommended for persons under 15 years
- 18: For mature audiences only
These classifications serve to protect viewers, particularly minors, from exposure to inappropriate content.
The NFVCB’s plan to establish a world-class classification center is a significant step toward modernizing content regulation in Nigeria. This initiative aims to ensure that all media content undergoes rigorous review processes, thereby upholding high standards of quality and appropriateness.
The move to strictly enforce content classification has both legal and social implications. Legally, content creators must now ensure that their works are reviewed and classified by the NFVCB before distribution. Failure to comply can result in prosecution, with the board working closely with security agencies to enforce these rules.
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Socially, this initiative aims to safeguard the public, especially young viewers, from exposure to unsuitable material. By enforcing these standards, the NFVCB seeks to foster a media environment that is respectful of cultural values and norms.
The federal government’s announcement underscores the importance of adhering to content classification regulations in Nigeria. As the NFVCB works to establish a state-of-the-art classification center, content creators must ensure that their works meet the required standards to avoid legal repercussions.
This move is a significant step toward maintaining the integrity and quality of media content available to the Nigerian public.