NFVCB Classifies 102 Films In January, Records 161% Surge
Sharp Rise in Film Classification
THE National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has announced that it classified 102 films for distribution and exhibition in January, marking a significant increase in regulatory activity at the start of the year.
The disclosure was contained in a statement issued on Thursday in Lagos by the Board’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ogbonna Onwumere.
According to the NFVCB, the January figure represents a 161.5 per cent increase compared to December 2025, when only 39 films were approved for release. The sharp rise suggests renewed activity across Nigeria’s film production and distribution landscape, commonly referred to as Nollywood.
Industry observers note that the spike may be attributed to delayed releases from the holiday period, increased cinema scheduling, and growing demand for streaming content.
Language Breakdown Reflects Market Trends
Providing a breakdown of the approved films by language, Onwumere said English-language productions accounted for the overwhelming majority, with 86 titles classified.
Indigenous-language films comprised a smaller portion of the total: eight Igbo films, three Yoruba films, and three Hausa films were approved during the month. In addition, two Hindi-language films were classified, reflecting the continued presence of foreign content within Nigeria’s exhibition space.
The distribution underscores the dominance of English-language productions in Nigeria’s mainstream film market. However, it also reflects continued contributions from regional industries operating in indigenous languages, which serve culturally specific audiences across the country.
Analysts say the language composition mirrors broader consumption patterns, where English-language films often secure wider national and international distribution, while indigenous productions maintain loyal regional followings.
Age Ratings and Content Regulation
The Board also released data on classification categories assigned to the films. Three titles received a “G” (General Viewing) rating, indicating suitability for all audiences. Four were rated “PG” (Parental Guidance), while another four were classified as “12A,” meaning children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
A significant proportion of films fell within higher age brackets: 64 films were rated “15,” and 27 were classified as “18.”
According to the NFVCB, the high number of films in the 15 and 18 categories highlights the Board’s vigilance in ensuring age-appropriate content guidelines are applied.
“The outcome underscores our commitment to safeguarding young audiences from potentially harmful material,” Onwumere stated.
The classification system serves as a regulatory mechanism designed to inform viewers, guide parents, and maintain ethical standards within Nigeria’s audiovisual sector.
Enforcement on Unclassified Online Content
Beyond reporting classification figures, the NFVCB reiterated its resolve to enforce compliance, particularly in the rapidly expanding digital distribution space.
Onwumere warned that the Board would commence issuing take-down orders on films distributed without prior classification.
“We shall commence the issuance of take-down 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,” he said.
The announcement signals increased regulatory scrutiny of online platforms, where independent filmmakers and distributors often release content directly to digital channels.
Industry stakeholders say the move could reshape compliance culture within Nollywood, especially among emerging producers operating outside traditional cinema circuits.
Industry Outlook
The January figures suggest a strong start to the year for Nigeria’s film industry, which remains one of the largest in Africa by volume.
While the dominance of mature-rated content raises questions about thematic trends, the surge in classification activity indicates sustained production momentum.
As the NFVCB intensifies oversight—particularly in the digital space—filmmakers and distributors may need to strengthen compliance processes to avoid disruptions.
For regulators, the task remains balancing creative freedom with audience protection in an industry that continues to expand both locally and globally.
