The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has praised filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele for promoting the dignity of the Nigerian currency, the naira, in her film “Behind The Scenes.” PREMIUM TIMES reported that Akindele released the film on 12 December 2025, exploring the emotional and financial strain placed on individuals expected to carry everyone else’s burdens.
Creative Scene Highlights Naira Abuse
In one striking scene, the FCTF abruptly interrupted a party as characters prepared to spray cash. Officers stormed the venue and shouted warnings to the crowd. The scene conveyed that spraying money constitutes a financial crime in Nigeria. This creative decision mirrors real-life crackdowns by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on public figures who abuse banknotes.
NOA Commends Patriotic Message
The agency responded in a statement signed by its Director-General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, made available on Thursday. NOA described the gesture as a commendable step towards reshaping public attitudes toward the naira. The statement read: “The NOA commends you for your recently released movie ‘Behind The Scenes,’ particularly for the thoughtful and patriotic inclusion of a message promoting respect for the national currency. We wish to acknowledge you as a role model and applaud your deliberate effort to highlight the importance of preserving the dignity of our national currency by discouraging the practice of spraying and trampling on the naira at public functions.”
Alignment with Government Advocacy
The agency stated that Akindele’s creative intervention aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing advocacy for responsible civic behaviour and adherence to laws guiding proper use of the naira. NOA assured the actress of its highest regards and pledged continued support for her contributions to nation-building. “The naira is not merely a medium of exchange but a symbol of our national sovereignty and collective identity. Your influence as a leading figure in Nigeria’s creative industry has significantly amplified this message, contributing to public awareness and behavioural change in an engaging and impactful way,” the statement added.
Entertainment Industry Role
The NOA recognised the vital role of the entertainment industry in shaping societal values. “Your work exemplifies how film can be effectively utilised as a tool for national reorientation, and we encourage you to continue leveraging your platform in support of initiatives that promote civic responsibility and national pride,” the agency added.
Context of Naira Abuse Prosecutions
The commendation comes amid prosecution and interrogation of entertainers over naira abuse. PREMIUM TIMES reported that comedian Ayo “AY Comedian” Makun and actress Iyabo Ojo, among others, were invited and quizzed by the EFCC. Businessman Pascal “Cubana Chief Priest” Okechukwu was arrested and charged in court, while Emeka “E-Money” Okonkwo was arrested and later released after hours of interrogation. Additionally, crossdresser Okuneye “Bobrisky” Olanrewaju, alongside other TikTokers and content creators, was jailed for the offence, as part of efforts to enforce respect for the country’s currency.
