The federal government claims it is illegal to release skits, films, or music videos that have not been classified by the National Films and Videos Censors Board (NFVCB).
Movie classification assigns age ratings and content guidelines to films and other audiovisual media.
It enables children and families to pick what is best for them while avoiding what is not.
In May, the NFVCB revealed plans to classify audio-visual content, including skits and music videos.
Shaibu Husseini, the board’s executive director, emphasized the importance of increasing content video classification in Nigeria.
The executive director of the NFVCB announced plans to establish a “world-class classification center.”
He urged content creators against releasing skits, films, or music videos without classification.
The NFVCB president also stated that the board is coordinating with security services to seek down filmmakers who have been found guilty.
“It is also an offence to distribute or exhibit any film or video content including skits and musical videos on any platform without recourse to the National Film and Video Censors Board for classification,” he said.
“The board therefore wishes to state categorically that we are working with relevant security agencies to track the individuals and production companies involved, and will stop at nothing to make sure they face the full wrath of the law.”
The NFVCB also frowned at the promotion and distribution of same-sex content on social media.
“Filmmakers and content creators should be reminded that it is an offence to directly or indirectly make public show (exhibition) of same-sex relationship in Nigeria,” it added.
The NFVCB issues a certificate of censorship to all films and video works censored by its in-house committee.
The certificate indicates the classification/rating of the film’s material or video.
Some of its classification symbols and grades include “G” for general exhibition, “PG” for content recommended for children with parental supervision, and “C” for films meant specifically for children.
Others include “12” to indicate that it is not advised for children under the age of 12, and “12A” to signal that no one under the age of 12 may enter a cinema unless accompanied by an adult.
The NFVCB also uses the “15” symbol to signify that a film is not recommended for people under the age of 15, while the “18” symbol indicates that it is appropriate for older audiences.
