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The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has approved a total of 102 films for public distribution and exhibition for the month of January 2026, marking a significant increase in film submissions and approvals across the Nigerian entertainment industry.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Ogbonna Onwumere, Head of Media at the NFVCB, who said the exercise was carried out in line with the agency’s statutory responsibility to regulate, classify, and monitor film and video content in Nigeria.
According to the board, the January figure represents a sharp 161.5 per cent rise compared to the 39 films approved in December 2025, highlighting renewed production activity and distribution momentum in the industry at the start of the year.
A detailed breakdown by language shows that 86 of the approved films were produced in English, underscoring the dominance of English-language content in Nigeria’s film market. Indigenous-language productions also made notable contributions, with eight films rendered in Igbo, three in Yoruba, and three in Hausa. In addition, two Hindi-language films were approved, reflecting the growing presence of foreign content within the Nigerian entertainment ecosystem.
“This distribution reflects the continued dominance of English-language productions in the Nigerian film market, while also highlighting contributions from indigenous Nigerian languages and foreign content,” the statement noted.
The board further released its classification breakdown based on age-appropriate ratings. According to the data, three films were rated G (General Viewing), four received PG (Parental Guidance), another four were classified under 12A, while the largest share fell under the 15 and 18 categories, with 64 and 27 films respectively.
The classification outcome, the board explained, indicates a high volume of mature-themed productions, reinforcing the need for strict regulatory oversight to protect younger audiences from potentially harmful material.
“This classification profile underscores the board’s commitment to safeguarding children and young persons by ensuring that films are properly rated and restricted to suitable age groups,” the statement added.
Onwumere also reiterated the NFVCB’s resolve to intensify its monitoring of online film distribution, particularly on platforms such as YouTube, where unclassified content is often uploaded without regulatory clearance.
“While the board appreciates the cooperation of stakeholders across the film value chain and reiterates its dedication to transparency and professionalism in the discharge of its regulatory functions, the board restates its resolve to ensure compliance with classification of all films and video works produced to be distributed online, especially on YouTube,” he said.
He further warned that the board would begin issuing takedown notices against any films found online without proper classification.
“We shall commence the issuance of takedown orders on films not classified by the board. The implication of the demand notice is that all films not classified on the channel will also be taken down,” Onwumere stated.
The move is expected to significantly impact digital film distribution, compelling filmmakers, producers, and content creators to comply fully with regulatory requirements before releasing their works online.
Industry observers believe the sharp increase in film approvals reflects renewed investor confidence, improved production capacity, and the steady expansion of Nigeria’s film industry. However, they also stress the importance of balancing creative freedom with regulatory responsibility to maintain standards and protect vulnerable audiences.
As the board continues its enforcement drive, stakeholders across the entertainment sector are being urged to prioritise classification and adhere strictly to content guidelines, ensuring that Nigeria’s film industry remains vibrant, responsible, and globally competitive.
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