The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has taken note of the concerns expressed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other members of the public in the media regarding the film titled A Very Dirty Christmas.
In a release signed by the Executive Director of the board, Dr Shaibu Husseini, the NFVCB has not received any formal communication from CAN but wishes to sincerely acknowledge these concerns and to reassure 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.
“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 release stated.
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 says it 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.
