By John Umeh
The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, has officially banned the use of its premises for skit-making, filmmaking, and other forms of video content creation without prior authorization, citing growing concerns over the misuse of its facilities and the potential for reputational damage.
In a statement released on Monday, October 28, and signed by the institution’s Head of Communication, Mrs. Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, the university expressed disapproval over the rising trend of individuals—particularly students and visiting content creators—using hostels, lecture halls, and other campus locations as backdrops for online videos and social media skits without proper clearance.
“The attention of the University Management has been drawn to the increasing use of the University premises, including hostels and other facilities, for shooting of films/videos (skits, vox pop, etc.) and cinematographic activities without appropriate authorization,” the statement read.
Protecting Campus Integrity and Academic Environment
According to the management, the decision was taken to preserve the university’s image, safeguard its students, and maintain the sanctity of its academic atmosphere. UNILAG emphasized that the uncontrolled influx of content creators into academic and residential areas had begun to interfere with the university’s daily activities and could portray the institution in a misleading light.
“This move is to ensure the protection of the University’s reputation, prevent misrepresentation in unregulated productions, and maintain the decorum expected of a top academic institution,” the statement added.
University authorities noted that the campus, as an academic environment, must be shielded from activities that could disrupt learning or compromise student privacy, particularly in sensitive areas such as hostels and classrooms.
New Rules for Filming and Content Creation
The university announced that it has established new procedures for anyone intending to record or produce content within its premises. Students, staff, or external collaborators must now seek and obtain official approval from the university’s Communications Unit before engaging in any form of video recording or skit production on campus.
This measure applies to all categories of content — including comedy skits, short films, documentaries, and social media interviews (vox pops). The management warned that anyone found violating this directive would face disciplinary or legal action, depending on their affiliation with the university.
“Members of the University community and the general public are advised to comply strictly with this directive in the interest of order, safety, and collective responsibility,” the statement concluded.
Background: Growing Trend of Campus-Based Skitmaking
In recent years, UNILAG, like several other Nigerian universities, has become a popular location for content creators seeking vibrant and youthful settings for their videos. Many comedians, TikTok influencers, and YouTubers have been seen filming around lecture halls, dormitories, and recreational centers—often without seeking permission.
While such videos have contributed to the creators’ online popularity, they have also sparked controversy. Some skits were criticized for misrepresenting university life or using vulgar language within identifiable campus locations, raising concerns about the institution’s image.
A university lecturer who spoke anonymously said, “We have seen videos that portray the school in questionable light—sometimes with students wearing uniforms or using logos and backgrounds that make it appear official. That’s why management had to act.”
Reactions from Students and Creators
The directive has sparked mixed reactions among students and members of the university’s creative community. Some praised the move as necessary to maintain order, while others described it as restrictive to student creativity and expression.
A student from the Department of Creative Arts, who identified herself as Tolu, said, “I understand the need for regulation, but the university should also create a clear process for students in creative disciplines to access filming permits easily. Some of us use skit-making as a means of livelihood.”
Another student, a content creator known as King Felix, expressed frustration, saying, “Most of us film harmless skits that even promote the school positively. Instead of banning us outright, UNILAG should provide guidelines or dedicated filming zones.”
Preserving Order and Image Amid Social Media Age
Analysts note that the ban reflects a broader struggle faced by educational institutions across Nigeria in balancing creative freedom with institutional decorum. With the explosion of social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, campuses have increasingly become hotspots for digital creativity—but also for controversy.
UNILAG’s management insists that the policy is not meant to stifle creativity but to ensure that content associated with the university upholds its values of excellence and integrity.
For now, the message is clear: anyone wishing to film or create content within the university’s premises must first secure official clearance—or risk facing sanctions.
