Summary
Obtaining a Film and Video Censorship Certificate in Nigeria involves a clear, four-step process administered by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB). First, download and complete the official NFVCB Classification & Censorship Application Form. Second, prepare and pay the requisite fee via the Federal Government’s REMITA platform, with fees scaling by runtime, language, and origin of the film (ranging from ₦10,500 to ₦150,000, plus flat-rate ₦50,000 for online works). Third, submit your application—online or at any NFVCB zonal office—alongside a film synopsis, copy of the work, and payment evidence. Finally, NFVCB conducts classification, and upon approval issues a digital certificate (within 24 hours for online works or up to 7 days for standard submissions).
1. Procedure
1.1. Download & Complete the Application Form
-
Visit the NFVCB website and download the Classification & Censorship Application Form under the “Downloads” or “E-Services” section.
-
Fill in your details accurately, including producer name, contact information, and film title.
1.2. Prepare Supporting Documents
-
Film Synopsis: A concise summary (1–2 paragraphs) of your film’s plot and themes.
-
Copy of the Film/Video Work: Digital file (link or USB/DVD) of the full work.
-
Passport Photograph: One recent photo of the producer or authorised representative (if required).
-
Payment Evidence: REMITA payment receipt or bank teller.
1.3. Pay the Censorship Fee via REMITA
-
Go to the Federal Government’s REMITA portal.
-
Use the NFVCB Remita Code (available on the NFVCB “How to Make Payments” page).
-
Select the category matching your film’s runtime, language, and origin (see Section 2 for detailed fees).
-
Complete payment and download your receipt.
1.4. Submit Your Application
-
Online Submission (for digital/online works only):
-
Email the completed form, synopsis, film link/file, and payment receipt to nfvcbonline@gmail.com.
-
Online works are processed within 24 hours of payment confirmation.
-
-
In-Person Submission:
-
Visit any NFVCB zonal or state office (six geopolitical zones) with all documents and media.
-
Standard processing takes up to 7 business days.
-
2. Cost & Fee Schedule
| Runtime | Local Lang. Films | English Lang. Films | Foreign Films | Online Works | Fast Track (+30%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0–15 mins | ₦10,500 | ₦20,000 | ₦25,000 | ₦50,000 (flat) | +30% |
| 16–30 mins | ₦20,000 | ₦30,000 | ₦40,000 | ₦50,000 (flat) | +30% |
| 31–60 mins | ₦30,000 | ₦40,000 | ₦50,000 | ₦50,000 (flat) | +30% |
| 61–90 mins | ₦40,000 | ₦50,000 | ₦60,000 | ₦50,000 (flat) | +30% |
| 91–120 mins | ₦45,000 | ₦60,000 | ₦70,000 | ₦50,000 (flat) | +30% |
| 121–150 mins | ₦50,000 | ₦70,000 | ₦80,000 | N/A | +30% |
| 151–200 mins | ₦60,000 | ₦80,000 | ₦90,000 | N/A | +30% |
| 201–300 mins | ₦75,000 | ₦90,000 | ₦100,000 | N/A | +30% |
| >300 mins | ₦85,000 | ₦100,000 | ₦150,000 | N/A | +30% |
All payments are made via REMITA, using NFVCB’s assigned codes.
3. Requirements Checklist
-
Completed NFVCB Classification Application Form
-
Film Synopsis detailing plot/themes
-
Copy of the Film/Video Work (digital or physical)
-
REMITA Payment Receipt
-
Passport Photograph (if specified)
4. Frequently Asked Questions
How long does classification take?
Online works: Certificate emailed within 24 hours of payment.
Standard submissions: Up to 7 business days; expedite by adding +30% fast-track fee.
Can I release my film online without certification?
No. All films—including online-only content—require NFVCB classification and certification before distribution.
What if my film exceeds 120 minutes?
Apply the higher-runtime fee bracket (see Section 2); fees max at ₦150,000 for foreign films over 300 minutes.
Where are NFVCB zonal offices located?
Offices exist across all six geopolitical zones: Lagos, Ibadan, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Kaduna.
Is fast-track classification available?
Yes. Fast-track adds 30% to the base fee, accelerating review times.
5. Common Misconceptions
-
“Only cinemas need censorship certificates.”
Wrong. All works—cinematic, TV, home video, and online—must be classified by NFVCB. -
“Online releases are exempt.”
False. Online-only films pay a flat ₦50,000 and follow the same certification rules. -
“Certificate equals distribution license.”
Clarification: A Censorship Certificate approves content; a Distributor/Exhibitor License permits business operations under separate fees and forms.
6. Conclusion
By following NFVCB’s official steps—completing the application, paying the correct fee via REMITA, and submitting all required documents—producers and distributors can efficiently secure a Film and Video Censorship Certificate, ensuring legal compliance and proper audience guidance in Nigeria.
