“They are very interested in money, and the African traditional religion offers them an easy way to make some,” a Catholic priest says.
A growing number of Nigerians, particularly youth, are abandoning Christianity in favour of African traditional spirituality, a shift driven by cultural awakening, dissatisfaction with church practices, and a search for deeper personal meaning.
Chidi Nwaohia, a former Bible teacher, now serves as a dibia (traditional priest) in southeastern Nigeria. His journey began after persistent health issues and accidents led him to embrace a spiritual path foretold at birth. “The dibia said I was the reincarnation of my grandfather,” he recalled.
This revival of traditional beliefs, though still lacking comprehensive data, is being noticed by religious leaders. Many attribute the trend to disillusionment with church materialism.
“They are very interested in money, and the African traditional religion offers them an easy way to make some,” said Catholic priest Anthony Oluba.
However, critics argue it’s the church’s own emphasis on wealth that’s driving followers away. “They stripped her of her membership,” said Chinedu Oshaba, referencing a church’s denial of burial to a poor parishioner.
Former Catholic priest Echezona Obiagbaosogu believes both systems can coexist. “Humans crown realities and create concepts… Nothing happens when you decide to recuse yourself from the concepts,” he said.
Yet the path isn’t always smooth. Converts face stigma and lack mentors, with some hiding their faith. “I am very bothered by my inability to practise my faith openly,” said Kingsley Akunwafor, a tailor.
Still, for many like Nwaohia, traditional worship offers fulfilment. “My God has prospered me,” he said. “I’ve not had any reason to cry since I became a dibia.”