The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed strong disapproval over the title of a new Nollywood film, A Very Dirty Christmas.

Describing the title as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith, CAN emphasized that Christmas is a sacred season celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, symbolizing purity, peace, love, and redemption. The association argued that linking the holiday with the word “dirty” undermines its spiritual significance and reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.

In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN acknowledged the importance of creative freedom and artistic expression but stressed that such freedom must be exercised responsibly, particularly in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria. The statement noted that creativity should foster understanding and unity, not provoke or offend deeply held beliefs.

CAN expressed concern that a film with such a title passed through regulatory channels without sufficient scrutiny. The association has called on the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) to clarify how the title was approved for public release, especially during the Christmas season.

The Christian body also urged Nollywood stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), to take a clear stance on the portrayal of religious themes and symbols in ways that may offend faith communities.

CAN further appealed to the producers and promoters of the film to reconsider the title, issue a public apology, and ensure that religious symbols and sacred occasions are treated with dignity. The association specifically called on actress and producer Ini Edo to show sensitivity and address the concerns raised by the Christian community.

“At a time when the nation faces significant moral and social challenges, actions that trivialize sacred values only deepen divisions and erode mutual respect,” CAN stated.