The Role of NFVCB in Regulating the Nigerian Film Industry

President Bola Tinubu’s Government Appoints Dr. Shaibu Husseini as Executive Director of NFVCB

In a strategic move to further boost the Nigerian film industry, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Shaibu Husseini as the 6th Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB). Dr. Husseini, a renowned film critic and industry expert, is set to lead the agency in its regulatory role within the creative sector.

The NFVCB, established under Act No. 85 of 1993, plays a crucial role in licensing, censoring, and regulating the distribution and exhibition of films and video works in Nigeria. With the support of the Nigerian Copyright Act, the agency ensures that creators have exclusive legal rights to their original works.

President Tinubu’s government has been actively working to grow the film, video, music, and arts sectors through grants, loans, and other forms of support. Dr. Husseini’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to further enhance the industry and make it more attractive to practitioners and investors.

Industry stakeholders have expressed their support for Dr. Husseini’s appointment, recognizing his expertise and dedication to the Nigerian film industry. The Honorable Minister for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, has also shown her support for the NFVCB and its role as a regulator in the creative sector.

The NFVCB has been instrumental in promoting Nigerian films on the international stage, with successful showcases at prestigious festivals such as the Toronto Film Festival, Cannes Film Festival, and FESPACO in Burkina Faso. The agency’s focus on connecting Nigerian producers with international partners has been lauded by industry heavyweights.

As calls to merge the NFVCB with the Ministry continue, industry insiders emphasize the importance of maintaining the agency as a standalone entity. The NFVCB’s role as a regulator is crucial to the growth and development of the Nigerian creative industry, and any attempts to undermine its credibility could have detrimental effects on the sector.

With Dr. Shaibu Husseini at the helm, the NFVCB is poised to continue its vital work in certifying and censoring creative content consumed in Nigeria. The industry looks forward to further collaborations and initiatives under his leadership, ensuring that Nigerian films continue to shine on the global stage.