The Nigerian government has approved the prohibition of money rituals and the portrayal of vices in Nigerian films.
This decision was communicated by Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director/CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), during a National Stakeholders Engagement on Smoke-Free Nollywood in Enugu on Wednesday, May 22.
Husseini emphasized that this action was essential to curb the glorification of criminal activities and to bring about a sanitization of the film industry. He highlighted the urgency of the situation and the need for bold and ambitious measures from all stakeholders.
The NFVCB boss also mentioned that the former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Muhammed, recognized the need to address the display of smoking and money rituals in Nigerian movies.
Following this, the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, approved the regulation titled “Prohibition of Money Ritual, Ritual Killing, Tobacco, Tobacco Products, Nicotine Product Promotion and Glamorisation display in Movies, Musical Videos and Skits” Regulations 2024.
Husseini further explained that besides the health implications, glamorizing smoking in films has a negative impact on young viewers. As a result, the NFVCB plans to conduct extensive awareness programs in schools, communities, faith-based groups, and other institutions to address this issue.
In collaboration with the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK) and the Center for Public Policy Alternatives (CAPPA), the NFVCB aims to regulate smoking in movies and promote a smoke-free Nollywood.
They are committed to developing creative content that discourages smoking and conveys positive health messages.
The NFVCB’s proactive approach and innovative strategies demonstrate their dedication to fulfilling their mandate and leading the way in promoting responsible and health-conscious content in the Nigerian film industry.
