7 oldest churches in Nigeria
Nigeria has some of the oldest churches in the world with these places to worship having grown to be an important part of the society.
More than just being places to worship, they have also helped with education, healthcare, and community development.
Here are seven of the oldest churches in Nigeria and how they have impacted the country:
7. The Church of the Lord (Aladura) (1930)
The Church of the Lord (Aladura) was started in 1930 by Josiah Olunowo Ositelu. “Aladura” means “The Praying People” in Yoruba. This church emphasises prayer and faith healing. It was created as a response to traditional practices like polygamy and the use of charms. Instead of these practices, the church focuses on complete trust in God. Today, the Church of the Lord (Aladura) has grown internationally and is known for its strong spiritual focus.
6. Cherubim and Seraphim Church (1925)
The Cherubim and Seraphim Church (C&S) was founded in 1925 by Moses Orimolade Tunolase. It is one of Nigeria’s oldest indigenous Pentecostal churches. The C&S Church mixes African traditional religious practices with Christianity. It focuses on visions, dreams, and spiritual healing. This unique approach has attracted many followers in Nigeria and other countries. Even though the church has split into different groups over the years, it remains an important part of Nigerian Christianity.
5. The Qua Iboe Church (1887)
The Qua Iboe Church, now called the United Evangelical Church, was started in 1887 by Irish missionary Reverend Samuel Alexander Bill. It began near the Qua Iboe River in Akwa Ibom State. The church focuses on Bible-based teachings and avoids practices that are not supported by the Bible. It has grown a lot, now having over 1,000 congregations and 500,000 members. The church’s headquarters is in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, and it remains a spiritual centre for many people.
4. The Roman Catholic Church (1860)
While Catholicism was present in other parts of Africa earlier, it was officially established in Nigeria in 1860 by French missionaries in Lagos. Over time, the Catholic Church became one of the largest Christian groups in Nigeria. It is known for its focus on education and social services. The church runs schools like St. Gregory’s College in Lagos and many hospitals. The Catholic Church continues to play a major role in Nigeria’s religious and social development.
3. The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (1846)
The Presbyterian Church was started in 1846 by Scottish missionaries led by Reverend Hope Waddell. They began their mission in Calabar, in southeastern Nigeria. The church was not only about spreading Christianity but also about improving people’s lives. They built schools and hospitals, which helped the local community grow. The church’s work in education and healthcare has had a lasting impact, especially in southeastern Nigeria.
2. The Church Missionary Society (CMS) – Anglican Church (1842)
The Church Missionary Society, now known as the Anglican Church, was also founded in 1842. British missionaries, including Samuel Ajayi Crowther, started their mission in Badagry. Crowther, a former slave, became the first African Anglican bishop. He translated the Bible into Yoruba, making it easier for Nigerians to understand Christianity. The Anglican Church built many schools that helped shape education in Nigeria. These schools influenced both the moral and intellectual growth of the nation.
1. The Methodist Church of Nigeria (1842)
The Methodist Church is one of the first Christian churches in Nigeria. It was started in 1842 by British Wesleyan missionaries led by Thomas Birch Freeman. They began their work in Badagry, Lagos. The church helped spread Christianity in western Nigeria. Besides religious activities, the Methodist Church set up schools. This gave many Nigerians the chance to get an education. Today, the Methodist Church is still important in both spiritual and community life.
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