By Ade Iyamoye
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has faulted the title of a new movie, A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
In a statement issued on December 17, 2025, and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said Christmas is a sacred season marking the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolising purity, peace, love, and redemption.
The association argued that associating the holy celebration with the word “dirty” diminishes its spiritual significance and trivialises a solemn religious observance.
While acknowledging the importance of creative freedom, CAN stressed that artistic expression must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity, particularly in a religiously diverse country like Nigeria.
According to the association, creativity should promote understanding and unity rather than provoke or offend deeply held beliefs.
CAN also expressed concern that the movie’s title passed through regulatory and professional channels without adequate scrutiny.
It called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition, especially during the Christmas season.
The association further urged industry bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), and other Nollywood stakeholders, to take a firm stand against the use of religious themes and symbols in ways that could offend faith communities.
The Christian body called on the producers and promoters of the film to reconsider the title, issue a public apology, and ensure that religious symbols and sacred seasons are treated with dignity.
It specifically appealed to the producer, Ini Edo, to show sensitivity and address the concerns raised by the Christian community.
CAN warned that at a time when Nigeria is grappling with serious moral and social challenges, actions that trivialise sacred values risk deepening divisions and eroding mutual respect.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful engagement but vowed to continue speaking out whenever the dignity of the Christian faith is undermined in the public space.
