Stakeholders from Nigeria's film and creative industries called for greater collaboration and cooperation to cultivate a vibrant and responsible creative sector during the fourth edition of the Peace Anyiam Osigwe (PAO) Nigerian Digital Content Regulation Conference, organized by the Board National Film and Video Censors (NFVCB). ).
The conference, held from November 14 to 15 under the theme 'Film and Video Regulation in the Digital Age: Balancing Creativity and Responsibility', featured in-depth discussions, exchange of ideas and innovative solutions to industry challenges.
The event, which included 12 panel discussions and over 36 distinguished panelists including Mildred Okwo, Kene Okwuosa, Francis Onwuchie, Joy Odiete, Ope Ajayi, Michael Williams, Funmi Onuma, Naz Onuzo, Uche Agbo, Patrick Lee, Mary Njoku and Fidelis Duker. , Ruth Kadiri and Emeka Mba, explored a wide range of issues critical to the sector.
Discussions covered topics such as crafting globally engaging narratives, addressing legal and practical issues in AI-powered film and television production, understanding the demands of global distribution, and navigating the dynamics of studio and film financing. independent.
Other sessions addressed strategies to maximize audience impact and return, preserve cultural heritage, document stories for emerging audiences, empower women in film and digital media, and address challenges in classification, collective management and negotiation in the digital era.
The conference also attracted prominent dignitaries including Mo Abudu, Founder and Chairman of EbonyLife Group; Tola Akerele, representing the Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; Ben Bruce; George Anyiam-Osigwe; Kennedy Anyiam-Osigwe; Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe; Fidelis Duker and Broma Silva, among others.
Mo Abudu speaking at the event
Mo Abudu emphasized the importance of retaining authenticity in Nigerian and African storytelling for global audiences.
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He highlighted the need for collaboration, noting that only some people can be successful in isolation.
Embracing responsibility and innovation
In his speech, NFVCB CEO Shaibu Husseini encouraged filmmakers and content creators to push the boundaries of creativity while maintaining responsibility.
He underscored the objective of the conference to provide a platform for industry professionals, thought leaders and innovators to share knowledge, collaborate and seamlessly transition from traditional to digital content consumption in Nigeria.
He said: “Those who have followed the conference since its inception in 2021 would agree that the conversations have been constructive and open. It has annually focused on creating an enabling environment for businesses and investors, while ensuring adequate regulation of the activities of filmmakers, streaming services and digital content providers.
“Let me take this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who agreed to partner with us, be on a panel, moderate a session, or present a keynote address in a concise prompt. “Their expertise, enthusiasm and solidarity have been instrumental in making this conference a resounding success and I am truly grateful for their contributions.”
The objectives of the NFVCB
Husseini highlighted that the NFVCB remains steadfast in its mission to foster a regulatory framework that stimulates the growth of the creative sector and safeguards the interests of consumers and stakeholders.
He reaffirmed the board's dedication to fostering a dynamic and responsible creative industry, underlining the importance of the conference as a vital step towards realizing this vision.
“Since taking office in March 2024, I have led an extraordinary team of staff and management committed to shifting the focus from censorship to classification. This approach ensures that movies and video content are rated appropriately for diverse audiences.
“When our bill, which is currently being considered in the National Assembly, is amended, the term 'censorship' will completely disappear from our new name. “We will be officially known as a classification organization and our reward will simply be ‘The Classifier,’” he added.
Additionally, the NFVCB director highlighted that the organization had significantly reduced film classification times, streamlining the process for filmmakers to obtain certification quickly with the introduction of an online class system. Plans to fully transition to digital operations by January 2025 made it more convenient for filmmakers and content creators across the country to categorize their works.
He noted: “It is important to highlight that since I took office, we have promoted media literacy, training audiences to critically evaluate content. We have collaborated and are still talking with digital platform owners to protect consumers from harmful content. Significantly, we have strengthened international alliances for exchanges and protection of intellectual property.
“All of this would not have been possible without the support of staff and management. “I would therefore like to recognize the hard work and dedication of our team at the NFVCB and thank the support of our partners and stakeholders, without whom this event would not have been possible.”
Appreciation
Mr Husseini thanked Minister Musawa for his unwavering support and visionary leadership of the creative sector and the NFVCB.
He highlighted that under his leadership the creative industry achieved important advances in its development.
He also commended the National Assembly for its strong commitment to the growth and development of the creative sector, noting that its continued support enabled the NFVCB to carry out its responsibilities effectively.
“Together, we are working tirelessly to create an environment for creativity to thrive, and I look forward to continued collaboration and partnership.
In closing, I urge our filmmakers and content creators to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity while taking responsibility.
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“As our work has the power to shape minds and influence culture, it is crucial that we balance artistic expression with sensitivity and respect for our audience. By doing so, we not only uphold the integrity of our industry, but also contribute to a more informed and empathetic society,” Husseini said.
He called on stakeholders to collaborate with the NFVCB to foster an environment where creativity can thrive.
He emphasized that support and cooperation are crucial to success, expressed his enthusiasm for working together to address future challenges and opportunities, and celebrated the creative excellence of our industry.