NFVCB introduces faster online film classification service

By Editor

THE National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has launched a faster and more convenient online classification service for producers of films and video works intended for online distribution. This initiative allows filmmakers to classify their productions from their offices or studios, eliminating the need for physical submissions.

To access this service, producers are required to send an application for classification on official letterhead, providing details such as the film’s title, genre, running time, synopsis, major cast and crew list, copyright authorization, and the names of the producer and director. The application should also specify the name of the production company to appear on the classification certificate and the guild or association the producer or director is affiliated with.

Next, applicants must upload their films via Google Drive or WeTransfer and submit them along with the application letter to any of the NFVCB’s designated email addresses, based on their preferred location. The available options include: Abuja: verification@nfvcb.gov.ng, Lagos: lagosverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, Ibadan: ibadanverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, Benin: beninverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, North West zone: nwverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, North East zone: neverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, North Central zone: ncverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, South South zone: ssverification@nfvcb.gov.ng, South East zone: severification@nfvcb.gov.ng. Additionally, all submissions must be copied to: nfvcbonline@gmail.com regardless of the location chosen.

A flat fee of ₦50,000 is required for films or video works with a running time between 1 and 120 minutes. Payment must be made through the Federal Government’s Remita platform, and the receipt should be forwarded to the email address of the chosen classification center while also copying nfvcbonline@gmail.com. Upon confirmation of payment, the NFVCB guarantees that the film will be classified and approved within 24 hours. A certificate will then be issued and sent via email.

The board reiterated that it is illegal to distribute or exhibit any film or video work that has not been classified by the NFVCB. Furthermore, only licensed distributors are permitted to distribute films and video works. For further details, filmmakers are encouraged to visit www.nfvcb.gov.ng or any NFVCB state or zonal office.