7 Reasons Why Christianity Is Being Abandoned In Nigeria?

May 2, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

There’s a growing shift among some Nigerians, particularly younger generations, from Christianity to African traditional spirituality reflects deeper cultural, spiritual, and societal dynamics at play. Several key factors are contributing to this trend, including:

1. Spiritual Disillusionment with Organised Christianity

Many young Nigerians are increasingly disillusioned by what they perceive as hypocrisy, corruption, and materialism in modern churches. High-profile scandals, emphasis on prosperity preaching, and the commercialisation of religion—where wealth often takes precedence over compassion or community—have led to frustration and scepticism.

2. Rediscovery of Cultural Identity

There is a cultural revival among Nigerian youth seeking to reconnect with their roots, which colonial-era Christianity often discredited. African spirituality offers a sense of identity, ancestry, and continuity that many find lacking in Western-imposed religious systems. This is especially appealing in a post-colonial context where reclaiming Indigenous heritage is seen as a form of resistance and self-definition.

3. Search for Personal Spiritual Fulfilment

For some, the shift stems from personal spiritual experiences and internal conflict that led them to believe their true path lies in traditional practices. These individuals often report feeling more spiritually aligned and whole within the framework of African traditional religion.

4. Syncretism and Blended Faith

Rather than complete abandonment of Christianity, many Nigerians adopt a hybrid approach—participating in Christian rites while privately consulting traditional priests or observing ancestral practices. This reflects a broader African spiritual worldview where multiple belief systems can coexist without contradiction.

5. Perception of Accessibility and Community Support

African traditional practices often emphasise communal responsibilities and support systems—such as offering free burial rites—contrasting with the perceived transactional nature of some churches that impose levies and fees, even on the poor or deceased.

6. Social Media and Historical Awareness

With greater access to history, including colonial and missionary atrocities, younger Nigerians are questioning inherited religious narratives. Online platforms give space for discussions that challenge the dominance of Christianity and promote a reevaluation of African religions once dismissed as “pagan” or “demonic”.

7. Economic and Practical Motivations

Some are drawn to traditional religion by the belief that it offers quicker solutions to life’s challenges—wealth, protection, success—especially in an environment where economic hardship is widespread. This sometimes stems from folklore and media portrayals that link traditional spirituality with mystical power and influence.

This trend, while not yet mainstream, represents a significant cultural shift. It’s prompting churches to reflect on their practices and relevance in modern Nigerian society, while also reviving long-marginalised Indigenous systems of belief.

This article isnt to support or chastise the nigerians affected by this but to make a point that the nigerian needs a swift snd urgent reform.