Entertainment
FG Bans Money Rituals, Smoking Scenes In Nollywood
The Federal Government has enacted a ban on the depiction of money rituals and the glamorization of vices in Nigerian films.
Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director and CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), revealed this decision during a National Stakeholders Engagement on Smoke-Free Nollywood held in Enugu on Wednesday, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
The event, organized by the NFVCB in collaboration with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, was attended by filmmakers, directors, actors from across the country, and leaders of various guilds and associations in the Nigerian film industry.
Husseini stated that the industry is currently facing an emergency that demands bold and ambitious actions from all parents, guardians, and stakeholders.
He said “When my predecessor approached the former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Muhammed on the need to make a subsidiary legislation to curtail the display of smoking in Nigerian movies, he saw the need to include money rituals.
“Others included in the regulation are ritual killings and glamorising other crimes to further sanitise the film industry.
“Today, I am delighted to announce to you that the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, pursuant to section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004 has approved the regulation.
“The minister has approved the Prohibition of Money Ritual, Ritual Killing, Tobacco, Tobacco Products, Nicotine Product Promotion and Glamorisation display in Movies, Musical Videos and Skits” Regulations 2024.”
“We have also forwarded the approved copy to the Federal Ministry of Justice for Gazette,”
Husseini mentioned that the sensitization program aimed to educate stakeholders about the dangers of depicting smoking in Nigerian movies.
He highlighted that, in addition to health risks, glamorizing smoking in films negatively influences teens and young adults, who make up the largest segment of Nigerian movie viewers.
He also stated that the board plans to implement detailed enlightenment programs in secondary schools, tertiary institutions, local communities, faith groups, and other institutions.
“As you all know, the film industry occupies a central position in the entertainment and creative sector, and we must continue to place the highest premium on the progress of the film industry.
“The NFVCB supports smoke-free movies and smoke-free Nollywood, and we, therefore, seek your collaboration to develop creative content that discourages smoking and promotes positive health messages.
“After a series of engagements, the NFVCB in collaboration with the CAPPA decided to do a ‘subsidiary regulations’ to cater for smoking in movies since this aspect was not expressly spelt out in the extant Law.
“The NFVCB is well prepared to take leadership in this regard and has planned and begun implementing innovative ways to achieve its mandate,”
Nigerian music icon, David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has made a public declaration about his personal growth and commitment to fidelity, stating that he’s done with cheating.
In a recent interview on the Breakfast Club podcast, the Afrobeats star spoke candidly about his past and how personal experiences have reshaped his outlook on relationships.
“I’m not cheating again. I don’t want wahala. I don’t want any wahala. I have five kids with four women,” Davido admitted, shedding light on his journey toward a more disciplined and peaceful lifestyle.
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He reflected on the influence of family, particularly the polygamous experiences of two of his uncles. “My uncle that’s a governor has two wives. Another of my uncles: all his wives lived with him, and they played with each other. But upon all the money, there’s still wahala,” he explained.
Davido suggested that witnessing the emotional and logistical complications in those homes helped him make up his mind.
“Maybe because I’ve had bad experiences. Sometimes experience is the best teacher,” he added.
The Nigerian film industry reached another milestone this weekend with the premiere of Radio Voice, a new feature film produced by renowned actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD).
The film made its debut on Saturday, April 6, 2025, at a star-studded event in Lagos State.
Radio Voice delves into the life of a charismatic radio presenter whose powerful public persona hides the personal struggles he faces behind the scenes.
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The film explores themes such as media influence, self-identity, and the emotional complexities of maintaining a public image.
Directed by Isioma Osaje, the film has been described as “a tribute to the legacy of radio in Nigeria” and offers “an intimate look at the human voice as both a tool and a burden.”
Speaking on the red carpet, Director Isioma Osaje shared her pride in leading the project. “One of the most meaningful stories I’ve ever had the privilege to tell,” she said, reflecting on the emotional weight of the film.
The premiere was hosted by popular media personality Ariyiike Dimples, who added energy and excitement to the event, interviewing guests and celebrities on the red carpet.
The event was attended by an impressive lineup of Nollywood stars, media executives, radio icons, and influencers, all dressed to impress.
The screening of Radio Voice received a standing ovation, with attendees praising the film’s emotional depth and the standout performances of its cast.
Early reactions on social media have been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the film as powerful, nostalgic, and a timely reflection on the challenges faced by media professionals.
In his address at the premiere, RMD highlighted the importance of preserving Nigerian heritage through storytelling.
“This film is for every radio personality who ever wondered if their voice was enough,” he said, emphasizing the significance of the narrative for media professionals.
Radio Voice is set to open in cinemas nationwide on April 11, 2025, and is expected to captivate audiences with its powerful portrayal of the human side of radio and the media industry.
Nollywood actress Annie Idibia has reappeared on social media nearly two months after her widely publicized separation from Nigerian music icon 2Baba.
Her return to Instagram has drawn significant attention, especially after she wiped her account clean, deleting all previous posts.
The actress’ sudden social media reset has fueled speculation about a fresh start, as fans and industry watchers analyze her next move.
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Annie and 2Baba, who share two children, officially ended their marriage in January 2025, following a public announcement by the singer.
Reports indicate that Annie sought rehabilitation after the breakup, while 2Baba has since moved on and is engaged to Edo lawmaker Natasha Osawaru.
Fans remain eager to see what comes next for the actress.
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