Safeguarding Nigerian Film Industry: The Imperative of Maintaining NFVCB’s Independence

The Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) stands as a cornerstone of the country’s burgeoning film industry, particularly Nollywood. Its role in regulating and fostering the growth of Nigeria’s film sector cannot be overstated. Yet, recent developments suggest that the NFVCB is under threat of being subsumed into the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, a move that could have devastating consequences for the Nigerian film industry. We at The Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention, LIFACC are by this write stating the significance of the NFVCB and appeal to the federal government and the National Assembly to retain its independence and instead strengthen its capabilities.

Since its establishment under Act No. 85 of 1993, the NFVCB has played a crucial role in the development and global recognition of Nollywood. This regulatory body is responsible for licensing individuals and premises for film and video exhibition, censoring content to ensure it meets national standards, regulating safety precautions, and overseeing cinematographic exhibitions. These functions have been instrumental in propelling Nigerian cinema to international acclaim, making Nollywood the second-largest film industry in the world by volume.

The NFVCB’s contributions to the creative industry are manifold. By maintaining a rigorous classification and censorship system, the Board ensures that Nigerian films meet both domestic and international standards, thereby protecting the country’s cultural integrity and enhancing its global reputation. Moreover, the NFVCB’s licensing and regulatory activities create a structured environment that fosters creativity, encourages investment, and promotes the growth of the film sector.

Under the leadership of Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the NFVCB has continued to build on its legacy, facilitating significant strides in the film industry’s development. Dr. Husseini’s appointment was widely celebrated as a commitment to strengthening the regulatory framework that supports Nigeria’s film industries.

Despite these achievements, the proposed merger of the NFVCB with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy threatens to undermine the Board’s autonomy and effectiveness. The NFVCB’s independence is critical to its ability to impartially regulate the film industry, ensuring that it can operate free from political interference and bureaucratic red tape. Subsuming the NFVCB into a larger governmental body would likely dilute its focus, diminish its regulatory capabilities, and stifle the growth of Nollywood and the larger film industry.

Industry stakeholders are rightfully alarmed by this potential merger. The NFVCB has been a steadfast guardian of our film industry, playing a pivotal role in its ascent on the global stage. Without its independent regulatory oversight, the industry risks losing the structured environment that has allowed it to thrive. As a regulatory body, the NFVCB is akin to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for the broadcast industry and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for telecommunications. Its standalone status is essential for maintaining the integrity and continued success of the Nigerian film industry.

The current Government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown commendable support for the Creative Industry with initiatives designed to bolster the film, music, and broader creative sectors.

However, merging the NFVCB with the Ministry could counteract these efforts, undoing years of progress and jeopardizing future advancements.

Furthermore, the NFVCB’s regulatory framework has become a model for other countries. The British Board of Film Classification, Kenya Classification Board, and South African Classification have sought to learn from Nigeria’s experience, while nations like Ghana, Malawi, and Uganda are establishing similar regulatory bodies. This international interest highlights the NFVCB’s effectiveness and the critical role it plays in shaping the global perception of Nigerian cinema.

In light of these considerations, it is clear that dismantling the NFVCB or reducing it to a department within a larger ministry would be a grave mistake. The Oronsaye Report, which recommendations are being implemented, must be reviewed with a critical eye. Implementing the report in its original form would be an oversight without considering the significant changes in technology and the creative industry since its inception. A more nuanced approach is needed—one that recognizes the NFVCB’s unique contributions and the importance of its independence.

LIFACC hereby declares that The NFVCB is not merely a regulatory body; it stands as an effective regulator of Nigeria’s film industry. Its autonomy ensures that it can effectively oversee the classification, censorship, and exhibition of films, fostering a thriving environment for the country’s film industry and protecting the interests of both creators and audiences. The federal government and the National Assembly must recognize the irreplaceable value of the NFVCB and act to preserve its independent status. Strengthening, rather than merging, the NFVCB will ensure the continued growth and global success of Nigeria’s film industry, safeguarding the cultural and artistic heritage of the nation for generations to come.