In the history of Nigeria, the Christian religion took root with the arrival of settlers in the 19th century, bringing with them profound changes that shaped society. Alongside these developments, Christianity gradually gained influence, giving rise to emblematic places of worship throughout the country.
Among the oldest churches in Nigeria, several stand out for their long history and their contribution to the spread of the Christian faith.
1. St. Anthony Church and Monastery (1690)
The first church built in Nigeria, located in Ode-Itsekiri (Big-Warri), in the Local Government Area of Warri South, is a place steeped in history. Founded between 1690 and 1692 by Reverend Pattazio, this Catholic church, called St. Anthony’s Monastery, is a testimony to the early presence of Catholicism in the region.
2. The Methodist Church of Nigeria (1842)
Founded in 1842 by British Methodist missionaries under the leadership of Thomas Birch Freeman, the Methodist Church of Nigeria played a major role in the evangelization of the country. Originally established in Badagry, the church quickly spread, laying the foundations for significant missionary expansion.
3. The Church Missionary Society (CMS) – Anglican Church (1842)
In 1842, British missionaries from the Church Missionary Society founded the Anglican Church in Nigeria, with the aim of converting the local population and establishing a formal education system. The establishment of this first headquarters in Badagry, Lagos, marked the beginning of a lasting presence of Anglicanism in the country.
4. The Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (1846)
Founded in 1846 by Rev. Hope Waddell, the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria is much more than a religious institution. It has been a force for social and educational change, building schools and hospitals across the country.
5. The Qua Iboe Church (United Evangelical Church) (1887)
Established in 1887 by Irish missionary Samuel Alexander Bill, the United Evangelical Church, also known as the Qua Iboe Church, grew rapidly to provide local communities with healthcare, education, and evangelism.
These ancient churches in Nigeria are testaments to the importance of the Christian faith in the country’s history and culture, while highlighting the crucial role of missionaries and religious institutions in the social and educational development of the nation. Their legacy lives on today, serving as a reminder of the diversity and richness of Nigeria’s religious heritage.