WEP Screens Documentary on the Dangers of Skin Whitening in Nigeria
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5th May 2026 |Abuja, Nigeria
WEP Screens Documentary on the Dangers of Skin Whitening in Nigeria
Women Environmental Programme (WEP) screens a thought-provoking documentary titled “Fairness at a Cost: Unveiling the Truth About Skin Whitening in Nigeria” to raise awareness on the growing health, environmental, and social risks associated with skin bleaching practices in the country. The screening takes place in Abuja on Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, at Hapag Lloyd House, No. 5B Constitution Avenue, Gaduwa Estate, Abuja.
Skin whitening, also known as skin bleaching, remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, with over 77% of women reported to have used skin-lightening products. Many of these products contain harmful substances such as mercury, hydroquinone, and corticosteroids, which are linked to serious health complications including organ damage, hormonal disruption, infertility, pregnancy complications, and increased risk of skin cancer. The effects also extend to children and the environment, posing long-term risks to public health and ecosystems.
The documentary, produced by WEP in collaboration with Women Engage for a Common Future (WECF), highlights the realities of skin bleaching through lived experiences of affected individuals, alongside insights from dermatologists, regulators, health agencies, and civil society organizations. It exposes the dangers associated with the use of toxic beauty products, amplifies the voices of key stakeholders, and promotes safer and healthier beauty practices while encouraging a shift in cultural perceptions around skin tone.
Since its launch, “Fairness at a Cost: Unveiling the Truth About Skin Whitening in Nigeria” continues to gain visibility on important global and national platforms. The documentary was first aired at the 7th Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) held in Nairobi, Kenya, and has subsequently been screened at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, during the International Women’s Day celebration.
Following the screening in Abuja, a panel discussion holds, bringing together experts and stakeholders to stimulate informed dialogue on the public health crisis, cultural and social drivers, regulatory gaps, and environmental implications of skin-lightening practices in Nigeria. The discussion is expected to generate actionable recommendations to strengthen advocacy, policy reform, regulatory enforcement, and public awareness.
Panelists draw from their expertise to address key issues such as the widespread availability of harmful products in markets and online platforms, the role of societal pressure and misinformation in driving usage, weak regulatory enforcement, and the environmental contamination caused by mercury-based cosmetics. The session also emphasizes the need for coordinated, multi-sectoral action to address the challenge and promote natural beauty, confidence, and well-being.
The documentary “Fairness at a Cost: Unveiling the Truth About Skin Whitening in Nigeria” is supported by Women Engage for a Common Future (WECF) through its Ecofeminist in Action for A Healthy and Toxic Free Future project; and the European Union, through the WomenPower2030: Feminists Accelerate Actions to Achieve the SDGs project.
WEP calls on government agencies, health professionals, media practitioners, and the general public to take urgent and sustained action to address the harmful use of skin-lightening products and to support initiatives that promote health, environmental sustainability, and positive social change.
Documentary Video Link:
English subtitle: https://youtu.be/BiGONNanX6g
Hausa subtitle: https://youtu.be/5XUbiTFlH9Y
Yoruba subtitle: https://youtu.be/OMJY9biioRc
For enquiries:
Ngutor Kenneth Ajioh – Head of Communications, WEP
Ngutor.ajioh@wepnigeria.net
Cynthia Onah – Communications Officer, WEP
cynthia.onah@wepnigeria.net
