Abstract:
The intricacies of Nigeria’s leadership challenges present a formidable obstacle to the nation’s
progress. Corruption, political instability, and ethnic and religious tensions form a complex
web that impedes development. While studies often analyse the political mobilisation of
religious groups, some failed to recognise their potential to bring about positive changes in
governance. This research addresses this gap by examining how the Church, with its network
and moral influence, can tackle Nigeria’s leadership hurdles and promote sustainable
development. Utilising historical and descriptive research methods, the study explores the
Church’s involvement in shaping Nigerian society and politics. It acknowledges the challenges
the Church faces in navigating the socio-political landscape and highlights its role in advocating
for ethical leadership and effective governance. By exploring both historical contexts and
contemporary realities, the article emphasises the importance of the Church’s active
engagement in advancing Nigeria’s democratic progress and socio-economic growth, offering
valuable insights for civil society and religious organisations to enhance their collaboration.
CONTRIBUTION: This study significantly contributes to tackling leadership challenges in Nigeria
by emphasising the crucial role of the Church and promoting collaborative governance
approaches as a means to achieve positive societal change and transformation.
