Churches and the achievement of the sustainable development goals in Nigeria

Abstract

The prominent role of churches and other faith-based organisations (FBOs) in providing palliatives to the public during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic demonstrates that they can potentially contribute to multi-stakeholder engagements and partnerships for the achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) even during crisis. It is therefore beneficial to foster synergy between the development activities of the churches and the achievement of the SDGs. There is however limited empirical research on the role of churches within the context of the attainment of the SDGs in Nigeria. This study seeks to rectify this by generating important data that highlights the views of Religious Leaders (RLs) on the church-SDGs relationship in Nigeria. The participants in the study were purposefully selected and the data obtained from the interviews was analysed through content analysis. The results show that Nigerian churches have antecedents in implementing development projects of different sizes, according to their available resources. These projects are often focused on the provision of financial support to members, feeding programmes, healthcare services, provision of water, and building and running of schools in their host communities. The results also show that the RLs believe their churches are well positioned to contribute the most to attaining the goals of SDG1 - no poverty, SDG2 - zero hunger, SDG3 - good health and wellbeing, and SDG4 - quality education given their antecedents © 2022 selection and editorial matter, Eghosa O. Ekhator, Servel Miller and Etinosa Igbinosa.