Kanayo O. Kanayo, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, has voiced strong objections to the government’s recent restrictions on film, music video, and skit content.
The acclaimed actor criticized the move, labeling it as “arrant nonsense” and questioned why Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, would support such limitations on creative expression.
Veteran musician Mike Okri also expressed his skepticism, suggesting the ban might be an attempt to stifle the film industry. “Whoever is behind this from the FG is joking. It’s a way to silence the movie industry. They should focus on the real challenges facing the country,” Okri remarked, urging the government to address more pressing national issues.
The federal government, through the Executive Director/CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr. Shaibu Husseini, recently imposed a ban on the portrayal of money rituals and the promotion of tobacco products in entertainment content. This decision is based on Section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004.
The announcement came during a National Stakeholders Engagement on Smoke-Free Nollywood event in Enugu State, held in collaboration with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA). Dr. Husseini stressed the importance of advancing the film industry while ensuring that entertainment media do not promote harmful behaviors and substances. He called for decisive and collective action to preserve the industry’s integrity and societal welfare.
The entertainment industry’s reaction has been one of concern and frustration. Industry leaders argue that these restrictions could hinder creative freedom and expression, which are crucial for the growth and dynamism of Nollywood, one of the largest film industries globally.
Kanayo O. Kanayo and Mike Okri’s criticisms reflect a broader sentiment within the industry: the government should focus on resolving critical national issues rather than imposing restrictive measures on creative content. They argue that the priority should be on improving conditions for filmmakers and musicians, such as providing better infrastructure, funding, and support for the arts.
