Nigerian Government Responds to Calls for Ban on Film Featuring Nancy Isime in Niqab

The Nigerian Government, through the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), has addressed calls for the ban of a controversial film by actress Nancy Isime.

NIGERIA NEWS 247 reports that Isime appeared in a viral poster for an upcoming movie, wearing a niqab in a robbery scene. The niqab, a garment worn by some Muslim women to cover their body and face except for the eyes, sparked widespread condemnation online. Many Muslims, including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), have urged the NFVCB to ban the film, labeling it as “satanic.”

In response, the NFVCB issued a statement on Friday clarifying that the film is still in production and has not yet been submitted for classification.

The NFVCB noted: “We have received complaints about the film associating the hijab—a symbol of modesty and religious devotion for Muslim women—with negative moral vices. Our investigation shows that the film is still in production and has not been submitted for classification as required by law.

“We have contacted the film’s producers to address the concerns raised. As a regulatory body, we will not ignore any film or video content that insults or undermines religious, cultural, or ethnic sensitivities.

“We are committed to promoting positive societal change through the classification of films and videos while respecting freedom of expression within legal boundaries and minimizing cultural, social, and religious harm.”