Freedom to choose, protection where it counts
Classification gives adults a wider range of films dealing with the realities of the adult world, while restricting children and youth from viewing what could harm them.
In an ethnic and religious society like Nigeria, the censorship and classification of films into varying categories not only allows adults the opportunity to see a wider range of films dealing with the realities of the adult world, but at the same time restricts children and youth from viewing what could be harmful to them — this is besides ensuring that other kinds of objectionable materials capable of inciting civil strife are reduced or eliminated completely.
The classification system serves two different functions: first, it lays down a set of legally enforceable rules to restrict admission and access to adult films by minors. On the other hand, it offers parents advance information about the suitability of the film so that parents can make informed decisions about what to let their children watch.
The Board abides at all times with the legal instruments that established it — the NFVCB Act 85 of 1993 (Cap N40 LFN 2004) — which lays out specific criteria for the censorship of films and video works. In line with global best practices and under section 2(e) of the NFVCB Act, the Board has also established clear guidelines for censorship and classification.
Classification ratings
New policies for film & video exhibition
In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 65 of the NFVCB Act 1993 and with the approval of the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, the Board has issued updated Regulations and Scale of Charges for Film Distribution and Exhibition 2025.
These regulations govern
- Community Exhibition Premises Licensing
- Community Exhibitor Licensing
- Mobile Exhibition Licensing
- Regional and National Mobile Exhibitor Licensing
- Exhibition Premises Licensing (Major, Medium, Small Hall, Drive-In, Mobile)
- Regional and National Exhibitor Licensing
- Online Exhibitor Licensing (Multi-National, Medium, Small, YouTube)
- Suburban Exhibitor Licensing
- Film Distribution Licensing (National, Regional, Suburban, Community, Online)
Four main considerations
Every classification decision begins with these four questions.
Censorship criteria
The Censors and Classification Committee, in reaching a decision on a film or video work, shall ensure that:
- Such a film or video work has educational or entertainment value apart from promoting the Nigerian culture, unity and interest.
- Not likely to undermine national security.
- Not likely to induce or reinforce the corruption of private or public morality.
- Not likely to encourage or glorify the use of violence.
- Not likely to expose the people of African heritage to ridicule or contempt.
- Not likely to encourage illegal or criminal acts.
- Not likely to encourage racial, religious or ethnic discrimination or conflict.
- Not likely by its contents to be blasphemous or obscene.
- Not likely to denigrate the dignity of womanhood.