Dr. Shaibu Husseini’s Appointment as Director General of NFVCB: A New Chapter for Nigeria’s Film Industry
Dr. Shaibu Husseini’s Appointment as Director General of NFVCB: A New Chapter for Nigeria’s Film Industry
Jerry Adesewo
In a significant development within Nigeria’s film regulatory sector, Dr. Shaibu Husseini has been appointed as the new Director General of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), to replace the incumbent, Ahaji Adedayo Thomas, to usher in a new era for the country’s vibrant and evolving film industry.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the Nigerian film industry, will step into the role with a wealth of experience. His previous engagements within the film industry, coupled with his academic background, make him a strategic choice for leading the NFVCB during a time of dynamic shifts and challenges within the sector.
The Nigerian film industry, often referred to as Nollywood, has experienced remarkable growth and international acclaim over the years. It has become a cultural force, not only within Africa but globally. However, this success has also brought about challenges related to content regulation, piracy, and the need for infrastructure development. Dr. Husseini’s appointment reflects a commitment to addressing these challenges and fostering an environment that nurtures creativity while upholding ethical standards.
Expectedly, one of the key areas of focus for Dr. Shaibu Husseini will likely be the balance between creative freedom and responsible content. Striking this balance is crucial for an industry that prides itself on diverse storytelling and cultural representation. As the NFVCB navigates evolving trends in filmmaking, Dr. Husseini’s leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that regulatory frameworks remain relevant and supportive of the industry’s growth.
Additionally, the fight against piracy, which has been a persistent issue for the Nigerian film industry, is an arena where Dr. Husseini’s expertise is expected to be significant. Implementing effective measures to curb piracy and protect the intellectual property of filmmakers will be crucial for sustaining the industry’s economic viability.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini’s appointment comes at a time when the film industry is exploring new formats, distribution models, and international collaborations. His role will extend beyond regulation to actively contributing to the development of policies that foster innovation and address the needs of a rapidly evolving film landscape, in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of the top three movie producing nation in the world, along with United States of America (Nollywood) and India (Bollywood).
His Trajectory
Dr. Husseini, is a multifaceted Nigerian professional renowned as a journalist, performing artist, cultural administrator, PR and media expert, and film curator. His impact in documenting Nollywood-related topics earned him the title of the “most consistent documentarist.” In 2010, he further solidified his contributions to the industry by publishing his book, “Moviedom,” offering a comprehensive narrative on the developmental stages of Nollywood. His influence extends to the realm of awards, where he served as the head of the board of jury at the 2017 Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Shaibu Husseini’s affiliations underscore his commitment to various artistic and cinematic ventures. He chairs the Dance Guild of Nigeria and serves as a pioneer member of the National Dance Company of Nigeria. He is a frontline member of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP), and holds leadership roles in international film critic organizations, serving as the Secretary General of both the Federation of International Film Critics (FIPRESCI) and the Federation of African Film Critic. Furthermore, he is an alumnus of the International Visitor Leadership Program and the Berlinale Talent Campus press. He also recently bagged a role in the Nigeria Oscar Selection Committee.
His diverse expertise and unwavering commitment to the arts make him a key figure in the country’s creative sphere, and a good fit for his new position as the Director General of the NFVCB, which is expected to mark a promising chapter for Nigeria’s film industry.
As he takes the helm, there is anticipation and optimism that his leadership will not only uphold the regulatory standards but also catalyse positive transformations that align with the dynamic nature of Nollywood. The industry, filmmakers, and enthusiasts alike look forward to witnessing the impact of his tenure on the continued success and growth of Nigeria’s film sector.
