December 18, (THEWILL) — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has criticised the title of a new Nollywood movie produced by seasoned actress, Ini Edo, saying it is offensive to Christians.
The movie, titled A Very Dirty Christmas, was released in cinemas across Nigeria on December 16, 2025.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association described the title as insensitive and disrespectful to the Christian faith.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria is deeply troubled by the title of the movie: ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’, which it considers offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith. Christmas is a sacred season that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and represents purity, peace, love and redemption. Linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ diminishes its spiritual meaning and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational”, the statement read.
While acknowledging creative freedom in filmmaking, CAN said such freedom should be used responsibly. It stressed the need for cultural and religious sensitivity in a diverse country like Nigeria.
CAN also questioned the approval of the movie title and called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to explain how it was cleared during a sensitive religious period.
The group urged Nollywood bodies, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria, to take a firm position on how religious themes and sacred symbols are portrayed in films.
CAN appealed to Ini Edo and the movie’s producers to address the concerns and consider changing the title.
The association warned that treating sacred values lightly, at a time when Nigeria is already facing moral and social challenges, could further divide the nation and reduce mutual respect.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
