FG bans money ritual, smoking scenes in Nollywood films

According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria, the Federal Government has given its approval to ban money rituals and the glorification of vices in Nigerian films.

This decision was revealed by Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director and CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board, during a National Stakeholders Engagement on Smoke-Free Nollywood event in Enugu.

The event, which was organized by NFVCB and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, saw the attendance of movie producers, directors, actors from different regions of Nigeria, as well as leaders from various guilds and associations within the Nigerian film industry.

Husseini emphasized the urgent industry crisis at hand, calling for decisive and innovative measures from parents, guardians, and stakeholders.

Upon discussing the issue with Alhaji Lai Muhammed, the former Minister of Information, my predecessor recognized the necessity of implementing additional legislation to restrict smoking scenes in Nigerian films.

This expanded regulation also addresses themes such as money rituals, ritual killings, and the glorification of criminal activities to enhance the overall integrity of the film industry.

I am thrilled to share with you that Minister Hannatu Musawa, responsible for Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, has given her approval in accordance with section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004 for the new regulations.

These regulations prohibit the depiction of money rituals, ritual killings, tobacco, tobacco products, nicotine product promotion, and glamorization in movies, music videos, and skits. The approved document has been sent to the Federal Ministry of Justice for publication in the Gazette.

Husseini emphasized the importance of educating stakeholders about the risks associated with smoking in Nigerian movies through a sensitization program.

He highlighted that aside from the health risks, portraying smoking as glamorous in films can have a detrimental impact on teenagers and young adults, who are the main audience for Nigerian movies.

Husseini also mentioned plans for extensive awareness campaigns in secondary schools, universities, local communities, religious groups, and other organizations.

He stressed the significance of supporting the growth of the film industry, which plays a central role in the entertainment sector.

The NFVCB is advocating for smoke-free movies and Nollywood productions. We invite you to join us in creating content that discourages smoking and promotes positive health messages.

Following discussions with CAPPA, the NFVCB has decided to introduce additional regulations regarding smoking in films, as this was not clearly addressed in existing laws.

The NFVCB is committed to leading the way in implementing new strategies to fulfill its responsibilities. According to NAN reports, the Board is required to register all film and video outlets nationwide and maintain a register of these registered establishments, among other duties.