Amanze Chinonye
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the title of the newly released Nollywood film A Very Dirty Christmas, describing it as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith and urging regulatory review and remedial action from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and the film’s producers.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, CAN’s President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said the use of the word “dirty” in reference to the Christmas season a sacred celebration marking the birth of Jesus Christ diminishes its spiritual significance and risks trivialising the core values of purity, peace, love and redemption associated with the festival.
The association also questioned how the title received approval for public exhibition during the festive period and called for an apology from the producers.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelREAD ALSO : Top Cheapest States To Visit For Christmas, New Year In Nigeria
Top 10 Ways To Enjoy Christmas On A Budget
The film, produced by Nollywood star Ini Edo and directed by Akay Mason, premiered in cinemas nationwide on 16 December 2025 and centres on the dynamics of a family Christmas reunion that unravels into conflict and emotional revelations.
Responding to the backlash, Ini Edo released a statement on her social media platforms saying the title was metaphorical and not intended to ridicule Christianity or the Christmas celebration. She stressed that all regulatory approvals, including certification by the NFVCB and the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), were obtained before release, and emphasised her personal Christian faith, asserting she would never knowingly disrespect her religion.
In an exclusive interview with Prime Business Africa, NFVCB Director-General Shaibu Husseini addressed the controversy, saying:
“Although the movie, in context, has nothing to do with Christmas, people have the right to protect their identities and ideologies when they feel it’s been infringed upon. We are in touch with the producer and we have instructed that they come up with a new title. The movie has not gone into the market; it’s simply showing in cinemas, so they have an opportunity to review the title for approval. I am sure that by Monday we will be able to come up with a new title, that I can assure you.”
Husseini emphasised the board’s commitment to balancing artistic creativity with respect for religious diversity and national harmony, while noting the ongoing dialogue with the film’s producers.
As of 21 December 2025, the film continues to screen nationwide, with a title review expected in the coming days to address the concerns raised by CAN and the public.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
