The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has acknowledged concerns raised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other members of the public in the media regarding the film titled A Very Dirty Christmas, produced by popular Nollywood actress, Ini Edo.
CAN, in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in Abuja has expressed disapproval over the title of the new movie, describing it as offensive and a mockery of the Christian faith.
The Christian body maintained that the title diminishes the spiritual significance of the birth of Jesus Christ.
It therefore called on the NFVCB to explain how the title was approved for public exhibition, particularly during the Christmas season.
The association noted that Christmas represents purity, peace, love, and redemption, adding that linking such a holy celebration with the word ‘dirty’ reduces a solemn religious observance to something crude and sensational.
According to the statement, while CAN respects creative freedom and artistic expression, such freedom must be exercised with responsibility and sensitivity in a religiously diverse society like Nigeria.
Responding in a statement on Thursday, the Censors Board said it had taken note of the concerns, adding that although it had not received any formal complaint from CAN, the reactions were important and deserved attention.
It reassured the Christian community and the general public that the NFVCB holds religious sensitivity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence as core considerations in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities.
“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and the Board is mindful of the importance of ensuring that films exhibited in the country do not undermine religious harmony or offend deeply held beliefs,” the Censors Board said.
The NFVCB clarifies that the film was approved and classified after undergoing the established censorship and classification process, during which the Film Censorship Committee examined the work within its narrative and thematic context.
“The approval of the title was not intended to disparage or trivialize the Christian faith or the significance of Christmas, but was considered as part of a fictional and creative expression.
“However, the Board recognizes that public perception and reception are critical elements of effective regulation.
“In light of the concerns raised by CAN, and in the spirit of responsiveness and dialogue, the NFVCB has formally engaged the producers of the film and requested a modification of the title in order to avoid interpretations that may be considered offensive to Christian sensibilities and to prevent any unnecessary religious tension.”
The Board further assures the public that it remains guided by the provisions of the National Film and Video Censors Board Act, including Section 39(1), which empowers the Film Censorship Committee to order the withdrawal of a film from exhibition for further review where such action is considered necessary in the interest of the public.
“The NFVCB remains open to continued engagement with CAN, faith-based organizations, industry stakeholders and the general public, and will always take appropriate steps to ensure that films exhibited in Nigeria promote understanding, respect for religious diversity and national unity, while also supporting responsible creativity and artistic expression.
“The Board appreciates the patience, understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders as it works to uphold its mandate in the overall interest of the Nigerian public.”
