The Kano State Censorship Board has suspended the screening of 22 Hausa films over alleged violations of regulatory requirements, in a move aimed at enforcing professional standards within the Kannywood industry.

According to a statement issued by the board's Information Officer, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, the directive was given on Sunday by Executive Secretary Abba El-Mustapha following a management meeting and consultations with relevant stakeholders.

Among the suspended films are several popular titles including Labarin, Dadin Kowa, Manyan Mata, Garwashi, Jamilun Jidda, Gidan Sarauta, Dakin Amarya, Mashahuri, Wasiyya, Tawakkaltu, Mijina, and Wani Zamani.

Other affected productions include Mallaka, Kudin Ruwa, Boka Ko Malam, Wayasan Gobe, Rana Dubu, Fatake, Shahadar Nabila, Tabarma, Kishiyata, and Rigar Aro.

The board has instructed all producers and owners of the suspended films to immediately cease streaming or broadcasting their content on television and internet platforms. They have been given a one-week deadline, from Monday, May 19 to Sunday, May 25, 2025, to submit their productions to the board for proper censorship approval.

"All producers or owners of the suspended films are hereby instructed to cease streaming or airing their content on television or the internet and to submit their productions to the board for censorship approval within one week to avoid legal consequences," the statement read.

The board emphasized that it is empowered by law to censor all films intended for production, marketing, streaming, or broadcasting before their release. This regulatory authority extends to all stakeholders within and outside Kano State.

This action represents the latest effort by Kano authorities to regulate content in the Hausa film industry, which has grown significantly in recent years to become a major cultural and economic force in northern Nigeria.

Producers who fail to comply with the directive within the stipulated timeframe may face legal action, according to the board's statement.