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The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has once again placed Nigeria at the fore front of progressive media regulation in Africa, with its presentation at the recently concluded World Tobacco Conference held in Ireland from October 22nd to 27th, 2024.
The Executive Director/CEO of the NFVCB Dr. Shaibu Husseini, who attended the global event, presented a status report on the implementation of the NFVCB 2024 Regulation on the Control of the Promotion and Glamourisation of Tobacco, Narcotics, Ritual Killings and Money Rituals in Nigerian films, music videos, and skits.
The regulation, which was approved and gazetted earlier in 2024 under the leadership of the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, was hailed at the conference as a groundbreaking policy initiative. Nigeria was recognized as the first country in Africa to develop and enforce such a bold regulation targeting the harmful portrayal of substance abuse and ritualistic practices in screen content.
According to the NFVCB Chief Executive, the Board’s presentation highlighted the regulation’s objectives, the stakeholder engagement process that led to its adoption, and the enforcement mechanisms already in place. The global audience responded with commendations for the Nigerian government, especially Minister Musawa, for what was described as a courageous and visionary move to protect public health and preserve cultural values.
One of the major outcomes of the conference was the various pledge by a number of international organizations, to assist Nigeria in the continued implementation of the regulation. The support set to be delivered through their local partner CAPPA (Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa)—will include logistical and technical assistance to enhance compliance and awareness.
Wicked hits Nigeria’s screens
The blockbuster musical fantasy film “Wicked” is showing on DStv this Sunday, giving fans the chance to relive the magic of one of the most successful movie releases of the year. Since its theatrical debut, “Wicked” has taken the world by storm, grossing an impressive $756 million globally, with $473 million from domestic markets and $283 million internationally, making it one of the highest-grossing Broadway adaptations ever. In Nigeria alone, the film has earned over ₦72 million within its first four weeks in cinemas, underscoring its widespread popularity among Nigerian audiences.
Directed by Jon M. Chu and based on the iconic Broadway musical, “Wicked” tells the captivating story inspired by Gregory Maguire’s novel and the classic Wizard of Oz lore. The film’s stellar cast, including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, has helped it break numerous box office records, including the biggest opening weekend for any Broadway-based movie worldwide, surpassing Les Misérables’ record. Its debut weekend saw a global haul of $160 million, with $114 million from the U.S. alone, and it has continued to dominate charts with strong staying power.
With its record-breaking success and critical acclaim, “Wicked” promises an unforgettable viewing experience that Nigerian audiences can now enjoy from home.
