AFRICAN JOURNAL OF RELIGION, CULTURE AND SOCIETY 3141-4370
The African Journal of Religion, Culture and Society (AJRCS) is the official publication of the Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Calabar, Nigeria. The journal provides a scholarly platform for critical engagement with issues at the intersection of religion, culture, society, and ethics, with particular emphasis on African contexts in dialogue with global discourses.
Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Calabar, Calabar.
Traditional Herbal Treatment of Female Infertility in Ibibio Culture, Nigeria
infertility in Ibibio culture, Nigeria. The methods and sources of herbs used in treating female infertility as well as make suggestions to improve the prospects of herbal treatment of infertility are examined. The descriptive-survey design was used and data collected through the use of questionnaires, interview and focus group schedules. The data analyzed confirm the prevalence of infertility in Ibibioland which in some cases, is awkwardly perceived as being caused by witchcraft; hormonal imbalance, internal heat, fibroid, and excessive use of contraceptives. The study further shows that through the oral and anal methods, roots, stems, leaves and bark of plants such as Utimense; Mfang Idip Ibaan, Asewa, Itumo etc are used in treating female infertility. Despite the reported efficacy, it is further revealed that many people are still skeptical about herbal usage due to unhygienic preparation processes and poor government regulation. The study concludes that the prospects of herbal treatment of female infertility can only be maximized if similar trust given to traditional medicine in Southwest Nigeria is exhibited by Ibibio people, and the regulatory policies in Nigeria are implemented extensively. The study calls for improved synergy between traditional herbal practitioners, pharma
Copyright (c) 2026 AFRICAN JOURNAL OF RELIGION, CULTURE AND SOCIETY 1595-1340
Parental Responsibility and Moral Failure in 1 Samuel 2:12 – 26: A Theological Appraisal in the Context of Anglican Children and Contemporary Challenges.
The world is full of several challenges which are peculiar to the end-time. Several practices such as bribery and corruption, stealing, sexual sin, child trafficking, hooliganism, cultism, kidnapping, fraudulent acts, sorcery, ritual killing, etc happen in Nigeria every day, and sad enough, the children and youths of our generation are either involved or are the most targeted group. The Anglican Children are not also exempted; they live in the age of moral decadence but they are expected to live exceptionally for God. Using historical and theological interpretative approach, this manuscript explores the biblical narrative of Eli and his sons (1 Samuel 2:12–26) and attempts to relate it to contemporary challenges faced by children within the Anglican Church, especially in the context of “end-time” moral crises. The study is devotional, theological, and partly socio-ethical in orientation, aiming to draw lessons for parenting, child upbringing, and church responsibility. The topic is relevant, particularly within African Christianity, where issues of youth moral decline, parenting, and religious formation are pressing.
The Impact of Christianity on Yekku festival in Tangale Land, Gombe State.
Yekku festival is celebrated yearly among the Tangale people. This cultural festival played a key role in shaping the moral values of the people over the years. However, with the advent of Christianity, this festival is losing its influence. In view of the above the paper examines the influence of Christianity on Yekku festival. The study adopted structural functionalist perspective of Emile Durkheim (1995) as its theoretical base. The research used a qualitative/content analysis approach using interviews and journals. The research reveals that Yekku festival is losing members because of massive conversion to Christianity. The Tangle god (Yekku), is no longer held in high esteem since people now belief in monotheistic teaching of Christianity and worship of other gods is seen as idolatry. The paper recommends that Traditional rulers who are the custodians of Tangle culture and religion should take measures to revival the celebration of Yekku festival by calling on their sons and daughters in the diaspora to always come home to participate in the festival. The research concludes by calling on the people to embrace their traditional religious beliefs that have positive impact in their lives.
THE ROLE OF ANCESTORS IN BUILDING A COHESIVE AFRICAN SOCIETY
Studies on ancestral veneration and its role among African peoples, particularly the significance of ancestors in fostering social cohesion, have continued to generate scholarly interest and debate. While it is widely acknowledged that Africans are deeply religious, the more pressing question is whether traditional religious systems; especially ancestral beliefs have, over the centuries, been sufficiently potent in promoting peace, order, and social harmony. This paper adopts an analytical and interpretive approach to examine the African conception of ancestors and their role in building a cohesive society. It argues that ancestral veneration serves as a vital moral and social framework that reinforces communal values and social stability. The study further situates this discourse within the context of modernity, highlighting the growing neglect of ancestral traditions among 21st-century Africans and its implications for social cohesion in contemporary African societies.
CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS OF ACADEMIC RESEARCH IN NIGERIAN THEOLOGICAL INSTITUTIONS: A CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS
Theological education in Nigeria has been shaped largely by Western missionary models, and this made it difficult to properly adapt research to local realities. This research paper examines the key challenges and emerging prospects of academic research within Nigerian theological institutions. Academic research needs to reflect the experiences of the society in which it is produced, especially in a place like Nigeria where culture and religion are closely connected. Some of the major challenges include poor infrastructure, such as poorly equipped libraries, limited access to digital resources, a shortage of qualified supervisors, and serious funding constraints, stemming from limited access to formal grants and over-reliance on church funding, which directly impacts research productivity. These challenges make it difficult for Nigerian scholars to actively contribute to wider scholarly discussion beyond their locality. Even with these challenges, there are clear opportunities for clear, such as developing indigenous theological frameworks and diversifying funding sources. Nigerian theological institutions can be seen as spaces where future ministers are formed and prepared for leadership with integrity and honour, are uniquely positioned to develop contextual and indigenous theology that provides ethical frameworks for addressing pressing societal issues like poverty, corruption, and inter-religious and communal conflicts. This can be achieved through intentional development of such theology that is locally relevant, improvement of research infrastructures to enhance access to information and diversification of funding sources by theological institutions to reduce over-reliance on church funding. The research used a qualitative approach to examine the state and perspectives of scholars in theological institutions. It concludes with recommendations that theological institutions, researchers and government bodies should increase investment in research infrastructure, funding and faculty training to foster a vibrant research culture that is not only academically rigorous but also socially relevant and transformative for Nigeria.
OLD AGE; A BLESSING OR A CURSE: A CHRISTIAN THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
Old age, the final stage of the human life cycle, is often interpreted through contrasting perspectives: as a period of peace, wisdom, and fulfilment, or as a phase marked by decline, isolation, and dependency. While some regard old age as a blessing, others perceive it as a burden or curse. This paper critically examines these competing views by exploring the physical, psychological, social, and cultural dimensions of aging. Biologically, old age is frequently associated with a gradual decline in physical strength and cognitive abilities, which may result in chronic illness, limited mobility, and increased dependence. Psychologically and socially, older persons may experience loneliness, marginalization, and feelings of irrelevance, especially in societies where the elderly are undervalued. Nevertheless, old age can also be a season of profound blessing. It often provides opportunities for reflection, spiritual growth, and life satisfaction, particularly when individuals enjoy strong family support, economic stability, and access to quality healthcare. In many cultural contexts, elders are respected for their wisdom and life experiences, serving as advisors and custodians of communal values. Using a qualitative approach and content analysis of relevant literature, this study examines how cultural narratives, public policies, and personal coping mechanisms shape attitudes toward aging. Grounded in the theological framework of human dignity and eschatological anthropology, the study concludes that old age is a complex life stage shaped by both personal circumstances and societal attitudes. It therefore recommends inclusive government policies, greater church engagement, intergenerational solidarity, and the promotion of healthy and active aging to ensure that the elderly live with dignity and purpose.
Mass Sensitization and Uptake of Measles–Rubella Vaccination in Rural Communities: A Study of Atta, Ikeduru Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria
This study examines mass sensitization and uptake of the Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine in Atta community, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was used to engage four hundred antenatal and postnatal mothers attending Ntu Atta Primary Health Care Centre and Atta Health Centre, Ogada. Guided by the Health Belief Model, data were analysed using frequencies and percentages. Findings show that although 51% of respondents had heard of the MR vaccine, awareness was driven by health centres (32%) and churches (24%), with minimal contribution from broadcast media. Uptake remained moderate: 54% had vaccinated their children, 29% had not, and 17% were undecided. Despite awareness, many caregivers demonstrated limited understanding of the vaccine’s importance in preventing complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and long‑term cognitive impairment. Hygiene practices were also poor, with 46% relying on unventilated pit toilets, 41% unaware of the need for handwashing after toileting, and 36% not washing hands before preparing baby food. These findings highlight the need for intensified, community‑based public health education to improve knowledge of measles transmission, strengthen preventive behaviours, and enhance MR vaccination uptake in rural communities.
Rebuke or Ruin? Social Media, Patristic Wisdom, and the Crisis of Fraternal Correction in the Contemporary Church
This paper takes up a question that sits at the intersection of ecclesiology, historical theology, and digital culture: whether the wave of social media-driven public condemnation directed at erring preachers in contemporary Christianity is consistent with how the church has historically handled doctrinal error and moral failure. Drawing on biblical theology, patristic sources, and the Nigerian Pentecostal and charismatic context as a case study, the paper argues that although the church has always borne an obligation to guard doctrinal truth, the current viral culture of online condemnation has broken from the restorative, relational, and communally grounded methods that defined the church fathers' approach to correction. A comparison of early conciliar methods — the councils of Nicaea, Constantinople, and Chalcedon — with how contemporary social media handles theological disputes reveals a structural and spiritual disjunction that cannot be explained away. The Nigerian church, which is among the world's most vigorous but also most fractious digital theological spaces, provides a particularly revealing window into these dynamics. The paper closes by sketching the outline of a theology of digital fraternal correction that draws on patristic resources while speaking to present realities, arguing that how the church corrects its members matters as much as whether it does.
A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF IWA AKWA CULTURAL CEREMONY OF DIMNEZE COMMUNITY IN IHITTE-UBOMA, IMO STATE
The concept of the cycle of life in Igbo worldview is aptly captured in their traditional practice of rites of passage. For traditional Igbos of Dimneze community puberty rites known as Iwa Akwa serve as a means by which the cultural norms and values are preserved. In the course of the festival young boys are initiated into the men’s forum, enlightened about what the family and the society at large expect of them. This age-long traditional practice is gradually dwindling. Despite the significances of Iwa Akwa rite of passage to community building and development, in contemporary times this rite becoming abandoned and considered obsolete this probably may the effect of modernity and acculturation. The research adopts the phenomenological method in its investigation. Through lived experience and from a subjective perception, the research is aimed at describing the activities, significances and challenges of Iwa Akwa rite of passage in Dimneze Community. The paper is qualitative research; the information used in the work is derived from existing literature on the subject. It is anchored on the theory of functionalism. The paper holds vehemently that the recent moral decadence and social vices in Dimneze community may be associated with the infiltration of western culture into the practice of Iwa Akwa cultural ceremony and the devaluation of the practice. Therefore, the research advocates the need to revitalize the Iwa Akwa cultural ceremony as proposed paradigm for proffering solutions to these problems.
WELL-BEING OF THE AGED IN UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH: EXAMINATION OF SOCIO-CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS ENGAGEMENT AS INDICATORS OF BLESSING OR BURDEN.
This study investigates the determinants of perceived quality of life among the elderly congregations of the United Evangelical Church in Calabar, Nigeria. Framed within the societal dichotomy of old age as either a blessing or a burden, the research employs qualitative methods, including oral interviews and textual analysis, to examine how socio-cultural participation, religious engagement, subjective well-being, and health status intersect. Findings reveal a critical dissonance between the church's doctrinal tenets of care and the lived experiences of its aged members, who frequently face social exclusion and a diminished sense of relevance. The analysis demonstrates that sustained religious involvement and robust social ties are positively correlated with higher self-rated well-being and life satisfaction. In contrast, health deterioration and social isolation reinforce perceptions of burden and dependency. The study concludes that the blessing narrative is contingent upon active socio-spiritual integration. It underscores the imperative for faith communities to translate theological values into structured practices that actively foster dignity, purpose, and community participation among the elderly, thereby challenging the conditions that frame ageing as a burden.
Evaluating Pastoral and Administrative Management Practices and Their Impact on Church Growth in Abundant Grace Baptist Association, Lagos, Nigeria
Churches in urban African contexts increasingly face organisational complexities that require more than spiritual oversight. Despite growing administrative demands, many pastors lack structured managerial preparation, creating a gap between awareness of management principles and their effective implementation. This study aimed to examine the relationship between pastoral and administrative management practices and church growth within the Abundant Grace Baptist Association, Lagos, Nigeria. Anchored in Henri Fayol’s management theory, the study employed a mixed-methods design involving 235 survey respondents and 15 in-depth interviews from 18 churches. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed high awareness of administrative principles but limited practical application. Financial management practices significantly predicted financial stability (B = .236, p < .001), while leadership training significantly predicted both financial stability (B = .411, p < .001) and membership growth (B = .279, p < .001). Administrative application alone did not independently predict church financial stability or membership growth. The study concludes that leadership development serves as a critical mechanism through which management competence translates into sustainable church performance. It recommends integrating structured leadership training and financial governance frameworks into pastoral formation and denominational policy.
Prospects for Christian Youths’ Participation in Cross-cultural Mission Work among the Fali people of Mubi, Adamawa, Nigeria
To address the observed apathy among youths towards cross-cultural missions, this study examined the prospects for the participation of Fali Christian youths in Mubi, Adamawa, Nigeria, in cross-cultural mission work. The objectives were to discover the current level of participation of Fali Christian youths in cross-cultural missionary work, to identify the motivating and hindering factors that influence their participation, and to identify actions that can promote their participation. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design method with 200 respondents. Positive Youth Development theory was adopted for this study. The findings revealed that the Fali Christian youths have not been participating reasonably in cross-cultural mission work to other tribes; despite efforts in spiritual formation, they are hindered by low levels of education and vocational skills and therefore lack boldness to engage in intercultural interactions; combination of actions that can be strategically pursued among them are facilitation of tertiary and higher education, higher theological and missions training, relevant vocational skills acquisition, funding for these, and establishment of creative access methods of missions-sending. This study contributes to the existing knowledge by providing extensive work on the Fali people and holistic capacity development for youths from indigenous backgrounds.
APPLYING AI IN MONEY DOUBLING/GET- RICH QUICK SYNDROME AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
This study examined the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in money-doubling and get-rich-quick schemes and their impact on economic development in Nigeria. The proliferation of AI-enabled financial frauds exploits the public’s desire for rapid wealth, undermining economic stability and trust in digital financial platforms. The study assessed public awareness, exposure, perceptions, and socio-economic consequences of these schemes. A descriptive survey design was employed, collecting data from 120 purposively selected respondents, including young adults, digital entrepreneurs, civil servants, and students across major Nigerian urban centres, using a validated structured questionnaire. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics in SPSS. The study is anchored on the Fraud Triangle Theory, which explains motivations behind fraudulent behaviour, and Technological Determinism Theory, which highlights the role of technology in shaping social outcomes. Findings revealed high awareness (81.7%) and significant exposure (45%) to AI-enabled schemes, with 69.2% perceiving them as high risk. These schemes reduce trust in digital finance (76.7%) and cause substantial financial losses (61.7%), negatively impacting economic development. The study recommends increased public education, stronger regulatory frameworks, and enhanced digital literacy. It concludes that while AI offers economic opportunities, its misuse in fraudulent schemes poses serious risks, requiring coordinated policy and educational interventions to safeguard Nigeria’s economic development.
THE PROBLEM OF CORRUPTION IN NIGERIA; FALLING BACK ON KANT’S CATEGORICAL IMPERATIVES FOR SOLUTION
Every human society yearns for development in its human capital, social infrastructure, culture, economy and other indices. This desire for development will remain far-fetched if there is uncontrolled and endemic corruption. This is the situation commonly observed in Nigeria and some other African countries. We have argued here that there is indeed a problem of corruption in Nigeria and that this problem is pervasive and crippling to the economy, politics, governance, morality and other spheres of social life in Nigeria. This paper argues that adherence to the tenets and principles of Immanuel Kant’s categorical imperative will provide a way of escape from the deadly grip of corruption on Nigeria and Nigerians. The categorical imperative calls man back to the preservation of humanity and the dignity of the human person rather than a mere attempt to use men as means to some end. The paper adopts hermeneutical, analytical and critical methods to arrive at the conclusions.
The African Worldview and Its Implications for Socio-Ethical Issues
African worldviews, particularly the philosophy of Ubuntu, offer a distinctive framework for understanding socio-ethical issues through relationality, communal responsibility, and social harmony. This study explores how African ethical principles inform modern ethical practice in governance, justice, technology, and policy-making. Using a qualitative literature review of scholarly works from 2020 to 2025, the research identifies four key themes: communal ethics, restorative justice, culturally grounded technology ethics, and policy integration. Findings indicate that African worldviews provide culturally legitimate, socially effective, and ethically coherent approaches to contemporary challenges, highlighting the relevance of indigenous moral systems in both local and global contexts. By linking African ethical thought to communitarian ethical theory, the study demonstrates the practical and theoretical significance of relational moral reasoning in addressing modern socio-ethical dilemmas. The research contributes to knowledge by emphasizing the importance of integrating African perspectives into ethical education, governance frameworks, and technology policies, enriching global ethical discourse with culturally grounded insights.
TRADITIONAL BELIEFS ABOUT SACRED TREES AMONG THE ANNANG PEOPLE OF AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
Traditional religious practices and beliefs are often described using derogatory terms. Beliefs about sacred trees or their veneration in Annang traditional society are classified as idol worship by many adherents of other religions. In fact, venerated trees are commonly seen as playgrounds for witches and wizards in Annangland. These beliefs contradict the traditional relevance attached to sacred trees as well as the essentiality of trees to the ecosystem. Therefore, the study articulates the belief in sacred trees in Annangland with a view of identifying trees adjudged to be sacred, as well as identify the eco-spiritual relevance of the beliefs in sacred trees in Annang society. To achieve the aim of the study, the researcher purposively selected and interviewed custodians of Annang customs and traditions from Etim Ekpo, Ukanafun and Abak Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State. The study reveals that Ayop Ilem, Ekom, Ukum, Akanah, Ukpah, Nnung Nung, Nkubia, Unorh and Ukum, are some of the trees that are revered in Annangland. The study identifies that sacred trees have eco-spiritual relevance by virtue of serving spiritual functions, such as being the dwelling place for the spirits of ancestors and deities and adding value to traditional religious rites and rituals, as well as serving as channels for adherents of traditional religion to communicate with the deities and ancestors. At the ecological level, sacred trees boost biodiversity. The study concludes that deforestation due to fear of fetishism and the dearth of information on sacred trees in Annangland threatens the beliefs and as such must be discouraged. The researcher recommends that traditional rulers in Annangland should encourage afforestation and reactivate traditional taboos to prevent deforestation in Annangland. The Department of Forestry of the Ministry of Environment and Solid Minerals should domesticate the action plan contained in Goal 15 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and expedite a state-wide implementation of the National Forest Policy of 2020.
Exploring the Intersection of Religious Practices and Personal Spiritual Experiences (An Integrative Review)
This study examines the dynamic interplay which exists between religious practices and personal spiritual experiences. Using materials from online articles, it examines how structured rituals and traditions within organized religions shape individual spiritual encounters, while also exploring how personal spiritual experiences influence religious participation and interpretation. The study used an integrative review methodology, which allows for the inclusion of both empirical and theoretical literature to develop a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between religious practices and personal spiritual experiences. The research question was clearly formulated to examine how structured religious practices influence personal spiritual experiences and how those experiences impact religious participation. The research looks at the role of religious authorities in verifying and relating spiritual experiences within established religions and doctrines. Modern trends, including the personalization of spirituality and the integration of technology in religious practices, are analyzed. The study highlights the tension between institutional religious frameworks and individual spiritual journeys, discussing implications for the evolution of faith in contemporary society. Findings suggest a complex, reciprocal relationship between religious practices and personal spiritual experiences, with both elements continually influencing and reshaping each other. This research contributes to our understanding of the changing landscape of spirituality and religion in an increasingly globalized and technologically advanced world.
Effective Ecclesiastical Leadership Strategies for Church Growth and Administration in the 21st Century
The 21st-century church operates in a dynamic environment where growth encompasses spiritual, moral, intellectual, and emotional development, beyond mere numerical increase. This study examines effective ecclesiastical leadership strategies for achieving sustainable church growth and efficient administration amid contemporary challenges. Adopting a qualitative research design, data were sourced from secondary materials, including books, journals, and reports from selected Nigerian denominations. Using descriptive and analytical methods, the study identified leadership and administrative patterns that either facilitate or hinder church growth. Anchored in Transformational Leadership Theory and the biblical model of servant leadership, the study highlights the leader’s role in inspiring and motivating followers toward shared goals. Findings indicate that while some churches struggle with financial constraints, corruption, leadership rivalry, and weak administration, others thrive through visionary leadership, transparency, and ethical management. The study recommends diversifying income sources, institutionalizing accountability, providing continuous leadership training in ethics, administration, and conflict resolution, and separating pastoral and administrative responsibilities for greater efficiency. The paper concludes that effective 21st-century church leadership requires vision, discipline, and spiritual maturity. When guided by biblical values and supported by sound administrative systems, church leaders can fulfill the divine mission of transforming lives and advancing God’s kingdom on earth.
PARADIGM FOR EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE IN PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN IKALAND
The significance of gratitude is widely perceived as a vital social bond that promotes connection among people, functioning as a backbone for the church and society at large. However, sparks of ingratitude within Pentecostal churches have continued to result in the breakup of congregations, conflicts, misunderstanding, and poor social relationships. This study examines a paradigm for the expression of gratitude in Pentecostal Churches in Ikaland, addressing a significant lacuna in the existing literature regarding local expressions of this virtue. Adopting historical and phenomenological methods of religious research, the paper identifies a lack of structured gratitude expression in these churches. It proposes a paradigm for the practice of gratitude deduced from Luke 17:11–19, as demonstrated by the grateful Samaritan leper. This paradigm focuses on the pillars of celebration, humility, and faith. This paradigm will help stem the tide of ingratitude and enhance peaceful co-existence. The paper recommends that the Bible, as the constitution of the Christian faith, should serve as the primary guide for the expression of gratitude among believers.
AGEING AND TRAUMA MANAGEMENT: A CHRISTIAN COUNSELING APPROACH
Trauma is a recurrent factor among elderly people who often face age-related circumstances such as loss, declining health, social exclusion, emotional, psychological, and other existential challenges. This study explored the intersection of ageing, trauma, and Christian Counseling approaches to trauma management. The Christian counseling perspective offers a holistic approach to healing, addressing not only the psychological and emotional dimensions of trauma but also the spiritual aspects. The study leaned on two theoretical frameworks: the Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Model (BPSS) as a dominant theory and Logotherapy as a complementary one. While the dominant theory gave a comprehensive overview of trauma among the elderly by making room for, and clarifying the dynamic interaction between biological, psychological, social, and spiritual life, the supportive one offered meaning-oriented perspective that is particularly important in later life. Both are relevant in Christian counselling as they address body, mind, and spirit, not just on trauma as a pure psychological phenomenon. Supporting the integration of these theories, the study revealed several consistent findings. One of such findings were that trauma among the elderly in Nigeria and Africa is multidimensional. Another stark finding that supported the synthesis of empirical and theoretical studies on old age was that seniors who are spiritual cope better than those who are not. The study also revealed that when elders are supported, their recovery process becomes faster in later life since meaning-making improves both psychological and spiritual wellbeing. The study concluded that since life review at old age reduces trauma related distresses, and faith-based meaning-making promotes resilience, it is recommended that Christian counselors should combine BPSS and Logotherapy principles in order to provide a holistic lealing in the lives of the elderly.
A RELIGIO-SOCIO-ECONOMIC RELOOK ON RAIN-MAKING REBRANDS IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY ITUNGWA NIGERIA
Globally, most mystical religious-traditions were declared idolatrous at the inception of missionary religions or particularly in Church History till date. In tracing continuity and change this paper engaged with a religio-socio-economic relook on rain-making enterprise in the twenty-first century. Especially in Africa and by Christianity’s evangelism propaganda, rain-making was suppressed into hiding amongst such religio-cultural phenomena. Rain-making went down but not out as many of the Christian-cloaked rain-makers patiently waited for a time considered expedient. Most surprisingly, with the everyday upsurge in the growing number of Churches, no one would imagine rain-making practitioner population’s consistent increase, even as majority bear baptismal names given to them during missionary sacramental rite. This reflected a striking form of syncretism. Interestingly, it was found that, rain-making does attract fame and income even from the government. This qualitative research with phenomenological approach same time multi-dimensional, allowing historio-comparative analysis, more so advocated enculturation or africanisation of all religions as to give more cognisance to African religious arts and peace. Thus believed that enthroning the right information and understanding was for more united progressive society. To people in same-faith such would heal wounds of denominationalism. This research guided by functionalism theoretical framework emphasised that, religion remained a source of social solidarity and cohesion if it provided succour and functional unity. Recommended that arts serving humanity some good, be religiously tolerated as personal for good society services. The research concluded by entreating all to delete their detrimental traits and inadvertently good-services be guided to piously boost healthy long-life.
Broken Morality: Reinventing a New Ethical Culture in Nigeria for Civic Righteousness
This paper examines Nigeria's ethical deterioration and proposes pathways toward sustainable ethical cultural renewal. The author argues that Nigeria has transformed from a once-respected nation in the 1970s to one facing severe moral challenges across public and private sectors. The research identifies key factors contributing to this decline, including corruption, weak enforcement of ethical standards, fragmented policies, and the failure of religious institutions to instill moral values despite Nigeria's deeply religious character. The paper analyzes how economic mismanagement and corruption have led to widespread poverty, forcing citizens to choose survival over ethical conduct. It draws historical parallels with the 16th century Reformation, particularly Calvin's transformation of Geneva, to demonstrate how ideological shifts can create positive ethical cultures with significant socioeconomic impacts. The methodology is qualitative, analytical, and comparative, relying on secondary data, thematic organization, and historical/contextual analysis rather than empirical fieldwork or quantitative surveys. The approach is suited to the paper’s aim of diagnosing ethical problems and proposing high-level solutions for cultural renewal in Nigeria. The author concludes that reconstructing Nigeria's ethical culture requires a comprehensive approach: developing a new worldview, implementing strong leadership committed to ethical primacy, ensuring consistent enforcement of laws, and fostering collective responsibility. This renewal demands both institutional reforms and a societal commitment to ethical principles that can restore public trust and create a sustainable foundation for Nigeria's development.
ANNUAL SOCIO-RELIGIOUS TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS IN YORUBALAND: SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS AND CHALLENGES
Traditional festivals represent a core element of African Traditional Religion across Nigeria, with most ethnic groups designating specific periods each year for their observance. This research examines these socio-religious festivals in Yorubaland, placing particular emphasis on their economic impact on both local communities and the broader national economy. The study adopted a descriptive research design, combining oral interviews with festival custodians, a phenomenological approach, and secondary data to gather relevant information. Interview data was analyzed through thematic qualitative methods. Research findings indicate that Yoruba people in Nigeria continue to attach significant importance to traditional festival observance. The introduction of modern communication technology has enhanced the festivals' appeal and broadened their reach to a global audience. Notably, several of these festivals have emerged as viable income-generating platforms for host communities and the country at large. The study recommends increased government investment at all levels to make these festivals more appealing to international visitors. Festival custodians should also work to improve the content, packaging, and delivery of festival activities, which would enhance quality and serve as a catalyst for tourist attraction.
Appraisal of Strategies for Integrating Conversion Experience into Discipleship Program: A Case Study of the Redeemed College of Missions, Ede
This study looks into how conversion encounters can be incorporated into discipleship programs in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), a study of the Redeemed College of Missions. Data was collected by sending structured questionnaires (Google Forms) through WhatsApp to 49 students selected from a population of 132 from different RCCG regions. The study uses a descriptive research design and is supported by the Bridge Conversion Model by Richardson and Stewart (2021). Findings discloses that all participants (100%) have a personal conversion encounter, with 42.6% portraying it as sudden and 51.1% as gradual, while 80% considered their conversion highly significant to their Christian growth. Only 33.3% of respondents reported becoming a Christian to their leaders within a week, and 21.3% had no exposure to discipleship, indicating gaps in the conversion-to-discipleship process. Despite this, 83% of respondents engaged in discipleship activities and 89.4% attended baptismal classes; all respondents expressed satisfaction with the effectiveness of discipleship experiences in meeting conversion needs. 70.2% of respondents said that immediate mentorship was the most successful integration strategy. However, 83% of respondents identified insufficient follow-up as a significant obstacle. The study comes to the conclusion that although RCCG has robust discipleship programs, improved follow-up and individualised mentoring are essential for more effective integration of conversion experiences.