Technology and Economic Struggles Impact Church Attendance in Nigeria

In Nigeria, advancements in technology alongside worsening economic conditions are significantly affecting church attendance, particularly on Sundays. Many worshippers now prefer to participate in services online rather than attending in person, a shift observed by BusinessDay.

Historically, attending church physically was a common practice. However, the convenience of streaming services has led many to choose the comfort of their homes. While technology has enabled churches to reach a broader audience, the harsh economic landscape has further dissuaded congregants from attending physical services.

Recent surveys reveal that many worshippers weigh the costs of transportation and offerings against their financial realities, especially after the government’s removal of oil subsidies. As a result, some choose to stay home rather than incur additional expenses related to attending church.

Pastor Raph Ben Eniolorunda from Lagos notes that the current economic climate makes transportation unaffordable for many, leaving them unable to attend services. He highlights that the adoption of technology has made online worship increasingly popular, but this shift comes at a cost: a decline in fellowship and community among believers.

Eniolorunda also suggests that churches should adopt hybrid models, subsidize transportation for members, and encourage participation in smaller cell groups to foster community engagement.

Meanwhile, Pastor Olufemi Popoola, based outside Nigeria, points out that while Nigerian worshippers are grappling with economic challenges, Western congregations face different issues, primarily the rise of secularism and post-modernism, which threaten religious engagement.

Overall, the dual pressures of technology and economic hardship are reshaping church attendance in Nigeria, a country known for its vibrant Christian community. The shift to online worship, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, appears to be a lasting change, prompting church leaders to reconsider how they connect with their congregations.