“NFVCB Urges Nollywood Stakeholders to Shun Depictions of Harmful Practices: Emphasizes Smoke-Free Films and Responsible Content”
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) recently convened stakeholders in the Nollywood industry to advocate for the avoidance of harmful depictions in films and other creative content. Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director of NFVCB, delivered a compelling message during the National Stakeholders’ Engagement on Smoke-Free Nollywood held in Enugu. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that films, music videos, and other media productions refrain from portraying and glamorizing detrimental elements such as smoking tobacco, criminal activities, ritual killings, and money rituals.
Acknowledging the significant role of the film industry within the entertainment and creative sector, Husseini stressed the necessity of prioritizing its advancement. He highlighted the current challenges faced by the industry, describing them as an “industry emergency,” which demands concerted efforts from all stakeholders including parents, guardians, and industry players.
Furthermore, Husseini encouraged collaboration between public and private sectors to develop strategic partnerships aimed at mobilizing resources and implementing innovative approaches to educate and sensitize the public, particularly mothers and youth, about the dangers associated with unapproved and unclassified content.
Akinbode Oluwafemi, the Executive Director of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the imperative of promoting a smoke-free environment within the Nollywood landscape. Oluwafemi emphasized the need to counteract the portrayal of smoking and tobacco use as a fashionable lifestyle choice in movies and music videos, citing studies that have highlighted the prevalence of smoking in Nigerian films.
Moreover, Oluwafemi commended Dr. Husseini for initiating dialogues with industry stakeholders to work towards a Nigerian screen that refrains from unhealthy promotion of smoking tobacco. This collaborative effort between NFVCB and industry stakeholders reflects a shared commitment to promoting responsible content and fostering a healthier media environment for audiences across Nigeria.
In summary, the NFVCB’s call to action underscores the importance of social responsibility within the entertainment industry and serves as a catalyst for positive change in Nollywood’s portrayal of harmful behaviors. By championing smoke-free films and responsible content, stakeholders can contribute to a cultural shift towards healthier lifestyles and societal well-being.