"Too Much Skin or Just Fashion" – The Ongoing Debate on Nudity in New Nollywood

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As Nollywood evolves, so too does the style and storytelling of its stars, both on-screen and off. But lately, the rise in revealing outfits and suggestive scenes has sparked an intense debate: is Nollywood embracing bold fashion, or crossing into unnecessary nudity?

Social media has become the battleground where critics and supporters clash. One side argues that New Nollywood is pushing creative boundaries and aligning with global industry standards. 

The other believes it’s losing touch with cultural values and exploiting sexuality for attention. This debate isn’t new, but it’s louder now especially as younger actresses like Nancy Isime, Bimbo Ademoye, and others continue to grace red carpets in daring outfits that spark trending hashtags.

“It's not nudity, it's fashion,” actress Sharon Ooja once explained in an interview, defending her choice of a backless gown at a film premiere.

 “Our generation is expressive. We use style to tell stories just as much as our acting.” This view is echoed by many younger talents who see fashion as an extension of their art and brand identity.

However, veterans and cultural critics are not always sold. Nollywood elder Joke Silva recently expressed concern over what she called “the glamorisation of skin” in today’s industry. “There’s a difference between dressing beautifully and dressing provocatively for shock value,” she said.

Filmmakers, too, are split. Some, like Kemi Adetiba and Jade Osiberu, carefully balance sensuality and narrative purpose in their productions. Others are accused of including nudity that adds little to story development, leading to criticism of sensationalism.

Interestingly, this isn’t just a Nollywood issue. As the Nigerian entertainment industry grows into a global export, it mirrors similar debates happening in Hollywood, Bollywood, and beyond. The conversation, then, is about context when is it storytelling, and when is it simply spectacle?

What’s clear is that Nollywood is changing, and fast. With streaming platforms demanding bolder content and a new generation of viewers embracing modern sensibilities, the line between fashion and nudity will continue to be tested. Whether that line is crossed or redrawn remains in the hands of both creators and the audience.

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