NATIONAL FILM AND VIDEO CENSORS BOARD ACT, 1993
Act · Trade
Policy date: 1993-01-01
An Act establishes the National Film and Video Censors Board to regulate and classify films and videos in Nigeria. It targets film producers, distributors, and cinema operators. This protects public morality and ensures informed audience choices.
NATIONAL FILM AND VIDEO CENSORS BOARD ACT, 1993
What Is This Policy?
An Act that establishes the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) as the body responsible for regulating the film and video industry in Nigeria, including the classification, censorship, and licensing of all films and videos for public exhibition.
Who Does It Target?
Film producers and distributors Cinema operators and video rental businesses Online video streaming platforms operating in Nigeria NFVCB classification officials
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Regulate the content of films and videos exhibited in Nigeria, protect public morality and national cultural values, and provide a classification system that enables informed audience choices.
Key Features
Classification System: All films and videos must be submitted to NFVCB for classification before exhibition (G, PG, 12, 15, 18, and restricted categories). Exhibition Licence: Cinema operators and exhibition businesses must hold a valid NFVCB exhibition licence. Content Standards: Prohibits films that are obscene, incite violence, or are contrary to public policy. Production Registration: Film productions must be registered with NFVCB.
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nationwide film and video market Beneficiaries: Nigerian viewing public; film industry Funding: NFVCB licensing fees and classification fees
How to Access
Submit films for classification with the prescribed fee before exhibition Obtain a distribution licence from NFVCB Cinema operators must display NFVCB classification certificates Application method: Submit applications to NFVCB headquarters in Abuja.
Important Terms
Exhibiting an unclassified film is a criminal offence NFVCB may seize and destroy unclassified or prohibited films Classification decisions may be appealed to the NFVCB board
Official Resources
Website: https://www.nfvcb.gov.ng Contact: National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB)
Legal Framework
The National Film and Video Censors Board Act 1993 is the primary legislation governing film censorship in Nigeria. It operates alongside the Copyright Act 2022, the National Broadcasting Commission Act, and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria Act 2022. The Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation Act provides complementary authority for cultural industries. International alignment is with UNESCO's Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.