December 10, (THEWILL) – The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has declared its intention to penalise Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming services found in violation of Nigeria’s digital content laws.
During the third edition of the NFVCB’s Digital Content Regulation conference in Lagos, the Executive Director, Adedayo Thomas, emphasised the applicability of Nigerian Creative Industry laws to OTTs and streamers. He assured that the NFVCB is collaborating with security agencies to ensure legal consequences for offenders.
While applauding Netflix, the streaming giant for its compliance and cooperation, Thomas highlighted the streaming service’s refusal to accept films not classified by the NFVCB from filmmakers. He stressed that there are repercussions for non-compliance with digital content laws, particularly if the provided content goes against societal values.
He further affirmed the board’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural values by ensuring that films and videos distributed in the country adhere to required ethical standards.
Netflix’s Manager, Public Policy Sub-Saharan Africa, Ziyanda Buthelezi-Ngcobo, noted the company’s collaboration with NFVCB, emphasizing their dedication to protecting Nigerian children from inappropriate content and showcasing African culture and values through content censorship.
Additionally, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, Bukola Agbaminoja, underscored the board’s authority to close down any cinema or exhibition center contributing to the exposure of children to inappropriate and unclassified content.
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