Kano Film Censorship Board Engages Kannywood Stakeholders over Ban on 22 Films

By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar 

The Kano State Film and Censorship Board held a crucial meeting on Monday, 19 May 2025, with key stakeholders from the Kannywood industry, following the Board’s recent decision to suspend the release of 22 films in the state.

The dialogue was led by the Executive Chairman of the Board, Alhaji Abba Al-Mustapha, and attended by representatives of the Motion Picture Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN), Kano State Chapter. Present at the meeting were the Chairman of MOPPAN Kano, Ado Ahmad Gidan Dabino, MON; Ismail Khalil Ja’en; Mubarak Abba; as well as heads of major production companies including Nzaifi Asnanic of Asnanic Movie Tone, Muhammad Sani of Alrahus Film Production, Abdul Amat of Abnur Entertainment, Bashir Abubakar Mai Shadda of Maishadda Global Resources, Director Hafizu Bello, and the President of the Guild of Script Writers, Nasiru S. Gwangwazo.

The representatives visited the Board’s office to discuss the public announcement made earlier in the day, which detailed the suspension of the 22 films due to alleged non-compliance with the censorship process. The Board cited increasing complaints from the public regarding the release of uncensored films.

After an extensive deliberation between the Board and the stakeholders, the following resolutions were reached:

1. The Board agreed to extend the release window by one week for films already scheduled for premiere, to prevent financial losses for producers.
2. Another follow-up meeting is scheduled for Thursday to finalise discussions and find a lasting solution to the issue.

The MOPPAN Kano Chairman, Ado Ahmad Gidan Dabino, expressed appreciation for the dialogue and expressed optimism that future cooperation between the industry and the Board would strengthen regulatory compliance while supporting filmmakers.