Beverly Naya Sparks Debate After Exposing Nigeria’s Colourism Culture

According to Ireporter Online, Naya disclosed in an interview with One54 Africa that colourism and skin bleaching remain widespread issues in Nigeria, where lighter skin is often perceived as a symbol of beauty and higher social value.

The actress stated that many women continue to feel pressured to alter their natural appearance due to societal expectations, adding that the preference for lighter skin has created a hierarchy where people with fairer complexions are often viewed more favourably.

“Seventy-seven per cent of Nigerian women bleach their skin. When you think about it, it takes you back to square one because we are still being divided. There is this hierarchy of beauty where the lighter you are, the better,” she said.

Naya explained that when she began working on Skin, conversations around colourism were not widely recognised in Nigeria, despite the discrimination and hurtful comments experienced by many dark-skinned individuals.

She noted that many people used offensive descriptions toward those with darker complexions without understanding that such behaviour was a form of colour-based discrimination.

The filmmaker said the documentary was created as an educational project to expose the dangers associated with skin bleaching, explain the impact of colourism, and encourage Nigerians to appreciate their natural appearance.

According to her, the goal of Skin was to create awareness about the effects of beauty standards that favour certain skin tones and inspire people to develop confidence in their natural complexion.

The documentary, which featured contributions from experts and ordinary Nigerians, was released on Netflix in 2020, shortly after the global attention surrounding the death of George Floyd in the United States.

Naya revealed that the timing of the release contributed to the documentary gaining wider attention, as discussions about race, identity, and discrimination were taking place globally.

Skin explores the social pressure surrounding the pursuit of lighter skin, the risks associated with bleaching products, and the need for a cultural shift towards accepting and celebrating diverse natural skin tones.