CSOs Want NFVCB To Remain Independent

Civil Society Organizations CSOs, have advocated that the National Film and Video Censors Board, NFVCB, should remain an independent regulatory agency, amidst the Federal Government’s plans to merge agencies with duplicating functions.

The CSOs presented their cases before the House of Representatives Committee on the Restructuring of Federal Agencies and Commissions.

Representing Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, Zikora Ibeh expressed reservations about merging the NFVCB with other agencies, citing the significant contribution of Nollywood to the national economy.

She emphasized that the NFVCB has developed expertise over the years and should not be merged.

Also the Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance also submitted that the NFVCB should be strengthened, particularly in controlling smoking scenes in movies and skits.

The Programme Manager, Chibuike Nwokorie highlighted the need for an independent agency like the NFVCB to regulate the industry, given the rapid emergence of skit makers.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers NUT, called for better funding of senior secondary education, emphasizing its importance in career decision-making for students.

Legal Director, Okorafor Okechukwu stressed that NUT wants the best for Nigeria.

Chairman of the Committee, Ishiaka Ayokunle, acknowledged the concerns and suggested reasoning together to address the issues.

The committee also met with other agencies, including the National Emergency Management Agencies (NEMA), Nigeria Export Promotion Council, and the Free Trade Zones Authority, behind closed doors.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji