Nigeria takes bold step in censoring harmful media content through groundbreaking policy

Hannatu Musawa

By Felicia Nwosu

Nigeria has become the first country in Africa to introduce comprehensive regulations.

This is aimed at controlling the portrayal of tobacco use, narcotics, and violent rituals in its entertainment industry.

Recall that this pioneering policy, which was unveiled in 2024, was hailed as a significant milestone for public health and cultural preservation.

The new regulations apply to Nigerian films, music videos, and skits, marking a decisive step in safeguarding both the nation’s well-being and its rich cultural heritage.

Officials announced the regulation at the 2025 World Tobacco Conference held in Ireland, where Nigeria received international praise for its visionary approach.

The country’s stance on regulating the harmful representation of vices such as tobacco, narcotics, and ritual killings has set a new precedent for African nations, placing Nigeria at the forefront of media regulation.

In a presentation that drew considerable attention, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) highlighted the importance of this policy.

It’s concerned, it stated is geared towards protecting public health, particularly in the age of digital media, where such behaviors are often glamorized.

The NFVCB’s leadership earned global admiration for taking a stand against the normalization of dangerous practices within the creative industries.

This ground-breaking initiative, led by the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, seeks to address the growing concerns over the negative influence of media content on young audiences.

By curbing the portrayal of toxic behaviors, the regulation aims to foster a healthier and more responsible media landscape in Nigeria.

Internationally, Nigeria’s decision was widely praised at the World Tobacco Conference, where Musawa’s leadership was described as “visionary” and “courageous.”

Attendees commended her commitment to public health, with several global organizations pledging support to assist Nigeria in the successful implementation of the policy.

This backing, provided through collaborations with local partners like Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA).

Therefore, it is expected to help boost both compliance and awareness throughout the creative sector.

Mr. Husseini, a key figure at the conference, emphasised the importance of this international support.

The minister asserted that it demonstrates the global recognition of Nigeria’s leadership in responsible media governance.

“This recognition at the World Tobacco Conference is a testament to the Minister’s unyielding dedication to promoting safe and culturally respectful content in our creative industries,”

At the heart of the regulation is the NFVCB’s commitment to preventing the glorification of destructive behaviors in media.

Interestingly, this is particularly in films, music videos, and online skits.

This step aligns Nigeria’s efforts with the global movement aimed at reducing the media’s influence on public health and societal values, especially among young and impressionable audiences.

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The policy’s success hinges on both national and international cooperation.

Through technical support and awareness-raising initiatives, the NFVCB will ensure that content creators in Nigeria are aware of the new rules and the impact their work can have on public health and cultural standards.

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Nigeria’s innovative approach to media regulation marks a significant turning point for African countries, showing that it is possible to balance creative freedom with the need for social responsibility.

As the country continues to lead by example, its policy will likely inspire other nations to follow suit in tackling the pervasive influence of harmful media content.