Nigeria’s proposed ban on porn sites got me thinking about my first but indelible inexperience with porn and its profoundly inaccurate, deeply misleading portrayal of eroticism.
In a controversial move, the Nigerian government has taken a stance against the proliferation of pornography in the country. On 11 March 2025, Nigeria’s House of Representatives directed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to block access to pornographic websites, including OnlyFans, Pornhub, XVideos, and other adult content websites and impose sanctions on internet service providers that fail to comply.
While the proposed ban has garnered a mix of reactions, ranging from applause to outrage, it got me thinking about my first experience with porn. As a curious 10-year-old, all I had to do was type the words “show me sex” on Google, and I was exposed to explicit content that would haunt me for years to come. Although young then, I believed no sane person would genuinely desire to engage in the things I saw. Now as an adult, my stance remains unchanged. In exploring intimacy, where do we draw the line between what is safe and what is damaging to consume?
A clear distinction between eroticism and pornography
In the realm of human intimacy, two distinct worlds exist: eroticism and pornography. While often intertwined, these concepts embody fundamentally different principles. Eroticism is woven from emotional connection, psychological intimacy, and physical desire. It is marked by its soft caresses, the gentle warmth of a loving gaze, and a deep consideration for the parties involved. Eroticism is personal, subjective, and influenced by a deeply personal exploration of human sensuality.
Pornography, on the other hand, is the loud, attention-grabbing spectacle of explicit content, created to arouse and entertain. Fuelled by the endless possibilities of the digital age, pornography has become an omnipresent force in modern life. With the click of a button, explicit content is readily available, catering to every conceivable desire and fantasy. But beneath its glossy surface, pornography conceals a more complex reality – one that often prioritises male pleasure and fantasy, reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes.
The disturbing effects of pornography on women
One of the most pervasive and insidious stereotypes pornography reinforces is the objectification of women, where they are reduced to mere bodies rather than complex individuals with agency and autonomy. This objectification is compounded by the depiction of women as submissive, passive, and eager to please, reinforcing harmful notions of female deference and compliance.
Furthermore, pornography frequently portrays women as constantly available and willing to engage in sex, perpetuating the idea that women’s bodies are always accessible and ripe for male conquest. This not only disregards women’s autonomy and agency but also contributes to a culture of sexual entitlement and aggression.
Perhaps most disturbingly, some forms of pornography depict violence, coercion, or degradation of women, reinforcing harmful attitudes towards women, and contributing to a culture of sexual entitlement, aggression and assault on women. These stereotypes and narratives perpetuated by pornography can have far-reaching consequences, contributing to a broader cultural landscape that perpetuates sexism, misogyny, and violence against women.
Unveiling the importance of women’s eroticism
Pornography’s male-centred gaze distorts our understanding of women’s eroticisms, perpetuating a culture where sexual violence and exploitation are normalised, and healthy relationships are sacrificed at the altar of male gratification. In the delicate balance of human intimacy, acknowledging women’s eroticisms is paramount.
For too long, women’s desires and experiences have been relegated to the shadows, silenced by societal norms and expectations. By recognising and valuing women’s eroticism, we can challenge the notion that women’s bodies are solely for reproductive purposes or male pleasure; and promote a more inclusive and diverse understanding of female desire and sexuality.
It also empowers women to express their desires, set boundaries, and prioritise their own pleasure; foster healthier relationships, communication, and intimacy between partners; break down the stigma surrounding women’s sexuality, encouraging open discussions and education.
Ultimately, acknowledging women’s eroticism is essential for creating a more equitable and just society, where women’s bodies, desires, and autonomy are respected and celebrated.
Is Nigeria’s pornography ban a step in the right direction?
On one hand, banning porn sites can be seen as a positive move, especially considering the potential negative impacts of pornography on individuals and society. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that this law is being implemented when Nigeria grapples with far more pressing concerns. The country is still struggling to address issues like the rising poverty rate, insecurity, and inadequate infrastructure. With millions of Nigerians lacking access to basic necessities like electricity, healthcare, and education, one can’t help but wonder if banning porn sites should be the government’s top priority.
While banning porn sites may have some benefits, the timing of this law seems tone-deaf to the current realities. With the ban imposed, the Nigerian government should focus on addressing the country’s more pressing issues and bring relief to its citizens.
