For decades, the Church in Nigeria has endured ongoing turmoil and violence that have profoundly impacted many regions across the nation.
Amid the growing insecurity that now touches nearly every corner of the country, the Church continues to stand as a beacon of peace, justice, and societal advancement. This role is critical, as true and lasting development cannot take root in an environment overshadowed by fear and disorder.
Nigeria is widely recognized for its vast human potential and rich natural wealth; yet, its citizens face persistent economic struggles, insecurity, and social inequality. The violent incidents, often framed as religious or socio-economic disputes, expose a deep crisis concerning religious freedom and the fundamental right to worship without intimidation.
“Regardless of their religious beliefs, ethnic origins, or social status, Nigerians increasingly experience a sense of vulnerability and lack of protection. Our communal ties have frayed, and many are now reluctant to attend large religious or social events. It is important to remember that this was not always the case,” remarked Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto during his speech at the Augustinianum Hall in Vatican City on October 21, 2021.
Bishop Kukah was invited by Aid to the Church in Need to deliver their biennial report on the global state of religious liberty. This comprehensive 1,248-page document examines religious freedom worldwide from January 2023 through December 2024.
Based in Königstein, Germany, Aid to the Church in Need is a global Catholic pastoral organization that supports more than 5,000 initiatives annually. Their report evaluates how nations respect and protect this vital human right across all faiths.
“In Nigeria, the right to religious freedom is severely threatened, primarily due to biased laws targeting Christians in northern states and ongoing violent assaults throughout the country. It is deeply concerning that the outlook for religious liberty in Africa’s most populous nation remains so dire,” Kukah emphasized.
He characterized the report as a crucial alert for Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need to foster a nation united by inclusive citizenship. The bishop urged that all legislation must be fully consistent with the Nigerian Constitution.
“President Bola Tinubu‘s appeal to reinstate the original national anthem, which pledges to build a nation free from oppression, must now be fulfilled,” Kukah added.
He stressed that meaningful progress requires more than mere words, calling on political leaders to safeguard Nigerians’ constitutionally guaranteed rights to worship freely.
“Religious freedom is essential in Nigeria because genuine transformation stems from heartfelt belief, not from force,” explained Wale Olasoji, senior pastor of Living Impact Church, in a conversation with BusinessDay.
Olasoji elaborated that true impact is realized when people are educated, inspired, and empowered to live in harmony with their convictions rather than being coerced into practices that contradict their faith.
“No individual in Nigeria should endure harm or discrimination based on their religious affiliation,” he affirmed.
“Above all, God commands us to love our neighbors, and this principle must remain inviolable in all our actions, nurturing trust, unity, and the ethical foundation of our society,” Olasoji concluded.
Taiwo Akinola, Archbishop of Rhema Christian Church & Towers, drew attention to the tragic loss of lives, destruction of property, and the erosion of peaceful worship experienced by many Nigerians.
“Ongoing reports reveal disturbing levels of violence targeting Christians and their places of worship. According to the Open Doors International World Watch List 2024, Nigeria ranks sixth worldwide for Christian persecution, with a score of 88,” Akinola disclosed.
While reaffirming the Church’s dedication to peace, forgiveness, and interfaith dialogue, Akinola insisted that enduring peace must be founded on justice. “The Church firmly condemns these violent acts and urges the government to uphold constitutional religious freedoms, protect all worship centers, and hold perpetrators accountable,” he appealed.