The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), a regulatory agency of the Federal government has raised concerns about the increasing circulation of video content, especially online skits and other productions, which it says fail to promote national cohesion and social harmony.
This concern was raised in Benin on Wednesday by Mr Fred Elakhe of the Board, during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council.
Elakhe conveyed the firm stance of the NFVCB’s Executive Director, Dr Shaibu Husseini, who, he said, maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards media content that violates the Board’s regulatory standards.
He emphasised the growing impact of Nigerian films alongside a rising influx of foreign cultural influences, which he argued makes the role of censorship and classification more critical than ever in preserving moral values and social unity.
According to him, the Board is committed to fostering content that upholds traditional virtues such as respect for elders, family values, and moral discipline.
Elakhe noted a strategic shift in the Board’s operations from mere censorship to a more structured system of classification for films and video content.
He highlighted the Board’s strong disapproval of any media material involving child abuse or molestation.
Calling for collaboration with the NUJ, Elakhe proposed a joint effort in sanitising the film and media space through the NFVCB’s ‘Project Healthy Screen’.
This initiative, he said, is designed to ensure full compliance with the NFVCB Act and relevant regulatory provisions.
He explained the Board’s classification system, which includes symbols such as “G” for general exhibition, “C” for content specifically for children, “NC” for content not recommended for children, and “PG” for works requiring parental guidance.
Additional categories include “18” for mature audiences, “RE” for restricted exhibition, and other classifications as outlined in the Board’s regulations.
In response, the Chairman of the NUJ Edo State Council, Mr Festus Alenkhe, expressed the union’s readiness to support the Board’s efforts in promoting a healthier media environment.
