*The Executive Director, National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr Shaibu Husseini, (middle)poses with the EXCOS of ANCOP.
The Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr. Shaibu Husseini, has commended the Association of Nollywood Core Producers (ANCOP) for organizing a capacity-building workshop aimed at enhancing storytelling in Nollywood.
Speaking at the event themed “Crafting Stories that Captivate”, Dr. Husseini emphasized the critical role of compelling narratives in sustaining Nollywood’s dominance in Africa and expanding its global reach. He noted that well-structured stories—rooted in local culture yet universally resonant—are the foundation of successful films.
“A good story, crafted with care and depth, is what sells a movie, crosses borders, and defines the soul of every production,” he said. “This workshop is timely, as it strengthens the synergy between writers and producers, ensuring that our films not only entertain but also inspire, provoke thought, and reflect societal values.”
Dr. Husseini, who is also the chief executive officer of the NFVCB, highlighted the broader significance of storytelling in nation building, citing its power to promote cultural diversity, challenge stereotypes, and drive economic growth through job creation and tourism. However, he urged industry guilds to prioritize professional development over superficial engagements.
While commending ANCOP for the workshop, he quipped,” I must also take this opportunity to speak frankly to the broader responsibilities of industry guilds and associations. Guilds must do more to build the capacity of their members, uphold professional standards, and protect their welfare. Unfortunately, we are witnessing a troubling trend where some guilds are increasingly focused on organizing tours and award ceremonies abroad, many of which have no tangible impact on the career growth or well-being of their members here at home.”
Dr Husseini lamented further,” these foreign trips may create headlines and photo ops, but they do little to improve the quality of storytelling, production, distribution, or revenue streams in Nollywood”.
He appealed to Guilds to rethink their priorities, adding, “it is workshops like this focused on skills, knowledge transfer, and networking that should be the real legacy of our guilds”.
The NFVCB boss used the occasion to remind filmmakers of their obligation to submit films for classification, stressing that the Board has digitized the process for efficiency and transparency.
“Bypassing the NFVCB violates the law and denies the industry vital data needed for policy formulation, investment, and global partnerships,” he warned.
In closing, Dr. Husseini endorsed ANCOP’s workshop as a model for industry-led development and urged participants to maximize the opportunity.”You are custodians of Nigeria’s stories—a responsibility that demands professionalism and pride,” he stated.
He reaffirmed NFVCB’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate storytelling, ensure regulatory compliance, and position Nollywood as a globally respected industry.
