Christianity in Nigeria
Cathedral Church of Christ, Lagos, one of the oldest Anglican cathedrals in Nigeria | |
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 86–118 million (est., 2015–2022) 45-54% of the population. |
| This article is part of a series in |
| Culture of Nigeria |
|---|
| Christianity by country |
|---|
| Christianity portal |
Christianity in Nigeria is a major religion, shaping the country's cultural, social, and political landscape. Introduced in the 15th century through European missionaries, it gained significant traction in the 19th century, particularly in the southern and central regions. Today, Nigeria is home to one of the largest Christian populations in Africa, with diverse denominations including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Pentecostalism thriving alongside indigenous African Christian movements. The religion's influence extends to education, healthcare, and community life,while its dynamic growth has also sparked theological debates and interactions with Islam and traditional African religions. Christianity's role in Nigeria reflects both its global reach and its adaptation to local contexts, making it a vital part of the nation's identity.
As of recent estimates, Nigeria’s Christian population ranges from approximately 45% to 54% of the country’s total population of about 230–237 million, equating to roughly 80–100 million Christians, making Nigeria the country with the largest Christian population in Africa.The variance in estimations reflects the differences in survey methodologies and the absence of an official national religious census since 1963.
Christians are predominant in the southern and central regions, with significant Protestant, Pentecostal, and Catholic communities.