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The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced strong concerns regarding the recently released Nollywood movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, describing its title as inappropriate and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
In a statement, the association argued that Christmas is a sacred period that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and embodies values such as purity, peace, love, and redemption. Linking such a holy celebration with the term “dirty,” CAN said, undermines its spiritual significance and risks reducing a revered observance to a sensational or crude theme.
“At a time when the nation is already facing serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values only deepen division and erode mutual respect,” the association stressed.
The statement, signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the importance of creative freedom in film and artistic expression. However, it emphasised that such freedom should be exercised responsibly, particularly in Nigeria’s highly religious and culturally diverse society. The association warned that while creativity is important, it should foster mutual respect and harmony rather than provoke offence against deeply held religious beliefs.
CAN further questioned how the film, with a title it considers disrespectful, was approved for public exhibition. The association highlighted the role of regulatory authorities and professional review boards in overseeing content, noting that such approval appeared to have bypassed adequate scrutiny. It therefore urged the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to clarify how the title passed the review process and was allowed for public viewing, especially during the Christmas season.
The Christian body also called on Nollywood industry stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and other professional associations, to take a clear stance on the use of religious symbols and themes in ways that may be offensive to faith communities. CAN maintained that the industry has a responsibility to respect spiritual values while balancing the demands of storytelling and entertainment.
In addition, the association appealed directly to the producers and promoters of the movie to reconsider the title and its implications. CAN urged Ini Edo, the producer, to demonstrate sensitivity toward the Christian community, issue a public apology, and take steps to ensure that sacred seasons and religious symbols are treated with the respect they deserve.
“Christmas is a time of celebration, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Using language that diminishes the sacredness of this season is both insensitive and harmful,” CAN noted.
By raising these concerns, the Christian body highlighted the ongoing conversation between creative expression and religious respect, stressing that films and entertainment content have the potential to influence societal values and perceptions. CAN concluded by appealing for thoughtful engagement, urging filmmakers to consider the broader impact of their work on audiences, particularly in a nation where religion plays a central role in daily life.
The association’s statement underscores the importance of balancing artistic freedom with social responsibility, calling on all stakeholders in the Nollywood industry to approach religious themes with care and reverence.
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