The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has praised actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele for promoting respect for the naira in her film Behind The Scenes.
Released on December 12, 2025, the movie explores the emotional and financial strain faced by individuals who are expected to shoulder the burdens of others.
One of the film’s notable scenes shows officers of the Federal Capital Territory Task Force interrupting a party as guests prepare to spray cash. The officers warn attendees that spraying money is a financial offence in Nigeria.
According to NOA, the scene and similar messages in the film reinforce the need to preserve the dignity of the naira and support efforts to discourage abuse of the national currency.
In a statement signed by its director general Lanre Issa-Onilu and made available to journalists on Thursday, the agency described the creative decision as a commendable contribution to changing public attitudes towards the naira.
The statement read in part: “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 ₦aira at public functions.”
The agency said the actress’s intervention aligns with the Federal Government’s campaign for responsible civic behaviour and compliance with laws regulating the proper use of the naira.
NOA also expressed appreciation for her role in promoting public awareness through entertainment.
“As you are aware, the ₦aira 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 Agency recognises the vital role of the entertainment industry in shaping societal values and attitudes. 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.
Behind The Scenes was directed by Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye and written by Funke, Collins Okoh and Uche Mordi. The cast includes Tobi Bakre, Uzor Arukwe, Scarlet Gomez, Ini Dima Okojie, Iyabo Ojo, Mr Macaroni, Destiny Etiko, Ibrahim Chatta, Uche Montana and Victoria Adeyele.
Behind The Scenes became a record breaking success at the box office, grossing ₦2.7 billion during its cinema run to emerge as the highest grossing Nollywood film of all time. Distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, the movie also set overseas records, becoming the highest grossing Nollywood title in the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States and Canada. The film drew attention for its portrayal of family expectations, financial pressure and personal boundaries, alongside its message on responsible handling of the national currency.
