The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has urged Nigerian filmmakers to focus on producing high-quality content that delivers genuine value to audiences, investors, and the nation, rather than simply increasing the volume of productions.
Dr Shaibu Husseni, the Chief Executive Director of NFVCB, made this appeal during the ongoing 2025 Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulatory Conference held on Tuesday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference, organised by NFVCB, is now in its fifth edition, themed: “From Volume to Value: The Future of Nigeria’s Motion Picture Industry in the Digital Age.”
Husseni emphasised that the future success of Nollywood depends on strong storytelling, cultural authenticity, and filmmakers’ ability to meet international standards.
He encouraged industry stakeholders to leverage the digital era as an opportunity to elevate Nigeria’s creative output.
He, however, expressed concern over growing non-compliance with regulatory requirements, especially with the rise of online platforms.
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“The practice of uploading films without recourse to the NFVCB for classification or licensing is a clear violation of the law,” Husseni said, citing Sections 2B and E, as well as Sections 25, 28, and 31 of the NFVCB Act. “This infraction must stop.”
To tackle these issues, the board has implemented measures aimed at strengthening compliance while supporting filmmakers.
Husseni stated: “We have enhanced regulatory efficiency, including the introduction of a quick comeback time for film classification. In fact, now it is done under 24 hours. Some people even do their classification under five hours. We have enabled filmmakers to obtain their certificates swiftly and to distribute their awards without unnecessary delays. We have strengthened compliance and enforcement, ensuring that film meets statutory standards and audiences, especially young people, are protected from harmful or unclassified content.”
He added that these reforms are designed to safeguard young audiences, combat piracy, and ensure that Nigeria’s creative economy remains globally competitive.
Husseni further stressed the importance of collaboration for the growth of Nollywood and urged filmmakers to tell stories that inspire, promote Nigerian heritage, and motivate future generations to dream and believe. He reaffirmed the board’s commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural legacy.
