The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly condemned the newly released Nollywood film, A Very Dirty Christmas, describing its title as offensive and disrespectful to the Christian faith, while calling for a public apology and greater responsibility in the treatment of religious themes in the film industry.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, CAN faulted the movie, which reportedly began screening in cinemas nationwide on December 16, 2025, arguing that its title trivialises and demeans the spiritual significance of Christmas.
According to the association, Christmas is one of the most sacred seasons in Christianity, symbolising purity, peace, love, and the birth of Jesus Christ.
CAN argued that describing such a revered period as “dirty” fundamentally contradicts the values and meaning Christians attach to the celebration.
“The Christmas season holds profound spiritual meaning for Christians,” the statement read.
“Anyone who describes this sacred season as ‘dirty’ in the title of a movie has demeaned all that Christmas stands for.”
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, further elaborated on the association’s concerns, stating that the title turns a deeply significant religious event into something sensational and inappropriate.
He stressed that Christmas is not merely a holiday, but a sacred commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians regard as the embodiment of purity and spiritual cleansing.
“It is borderline offensive to associate such a holy season with something unclean,” Okoh said, adding that filmmakers should exercise sensitivity when drawing inspiration from religious symbols and celebrations.
Beyond the title itself, CAN also raised concerns about the regulatory process that allowed the film to reach cinemas.
The association questioned the role of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), urging the body to explain how a film with such a title passed through its approval process.
CAN noted that while creative freedom is important, it must be balanced with respect for religious beliefs, cultural values, and national harmony.
The association warned that provocative titles and themes risk deepening divisions and offending millions of faithful adherents
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