EXECUTIVE Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr Shaibu Husseini, has called for better distribution systems in Nigeria’s film industry to help local films reach a wider global audience.
He made this point during his keynote speech at the opening of the 2026 Coal City Film Festival in Enugu.
Husseini welcomed participants and shared his excitement about hosting the event in his birth state. He spoke about Enugu’s cultural importance and its long history in Nigeria’s creative industry. He also praised the festival organisers, especially Festival Director Uche Agbo, for their dedication and hard work.
He said the Coal City Film Festival has grown into a major cultural platform and an important film event in Nigeria’s South-east.
Speaking on the theme, “Local Stories, Global Screens,” Husseini highlighted the importance of authenticity. He said that films based on local culture, language, and real-life experiences can strongly connect with audiences around the world.
He mentioned Nigerian films such as ‘King of Boys’, ‘The Wedding Party’, ‘Anikulapo’.
‘Black Book’, and ‘Lionheart’. These films, which are rooted in local culture, have gained international attention through Netflix and global film festivals.
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Although more films are being made, Husseini said that strong distribution remains the main challenge. He explained that without good distribution channels, even top-quality Nigerian films have trouble reaching both local and international audiences, which limits their impact.
He encouraged film festivals to become active marketplaces that help with distribution. He called on them to bring in key players such as distributors, exhibitors, streaming platforms, and marketers to create real opportunities for filmmakers.
He concluded, “Film festivals must become direct gateways to distribution, ensuring filmmakers secure not just applause but concrete opportunities to deploy their work to audiences.”
Husseini also confirmed that the NFVCB is committed to helping the industry grow by working with stakeholders, improving classification processes, and balancing creative freedom with social responsibility.
He warned that more filmmakers are not following the rules. Some release films without getting them classified or work without the right licences. He said all films must be sent to the NFVCB for classification before being released, even on YouTube and other digital platforms.
“This is a legal obligation. I call on all industry practitioners to commit to submitting their films to the NFVCB for classification before releasing them on any platform, including digital channels such as YouTube. The Board will not hesitate to take decisive action against defaulters,” he warned.
Looking ahead, Husseini assured stakeholders that the NFVCB will keep working with them to support steady growth and make Nigerian film more competitive worldwide.
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