Movie classification attaches age rating and content advice
to films and other audiovisual content. It helps children and families choose
what is right for them and avoid what is not.
In May, the NFVCB announced plans to begin classification
for audio-visual content like skits and music videos.
NFVCB board’s executive director, Shaibu Husseini maintained that there is a need to ramp up content video classification in
Nigeria.
In a statement, the executive director said the NFVCB has
initiated plans to create “a world-class classification centre”.
He warned content creators against putting out skits, films,
or music videos without classification.
The NFVCB boss added that the board is collaborating with
security agencies to track filmmakers found culpable.
“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 on all films
and video works censored by its in-house committee.
The classification/rating for the film content or video is
indicated in the certificate.
Some of its classification symbols and ratings include “G”
to indicate general exhibition, “PG” to indicate content intended for children
under parental guidance, and “C” for films intended particularly for children.
Others are “12” to indicate not recommended for children
under 12 years and “12A” to state that no one under 12 may enter a cinema
unless accompanied by an adult.
NFVCB also has the “15” to indicate that a film is not
recommended for persons under 15 while “18” is to indicate that it is for
mature audiences.