The Church and the Nigerian Economic Recession

Abstract

In Nigeria, in recent times, life has become very hard for people; inflation has increased such that many people are unable to afford their basic needs. Similarly, governments at all levels are unable to perform their duties effectively due to low income, financial constraints and the diminishing economy which tends to be harsh. The above situation has been summarized as an economic recession. This paper discusses its meaning, its causes, its effects on the church, the meaning of the church, how the church should respond to economic recession and the way forward. In the process it is observed that the economy has experienced a downturn due to both internal and human factors and external or factors beyond human control. These have adversely affected and limited the economic ability of the masses, and hindered them from living comfortably. The church is also affected adversely, because the church members, who are the sources of revenue for the church, cannot support her effectively as they would have done. Due to this, the church is advised to tackle the situation in two ways: Firstly, from a biblical, consolatory perspective, and secondly from the physical position of encouraging their members to work hard, and the introduction, adoption and intensification of strategic poverty alleviation strategies such as investment in agriculture, skills acquisition, consumption of local goods and services, less demand for foreign goods and cooperation among churches to pursue the common welfare of all.

Key words: church, economic recession, economic downturn and church’s charity.