Religion Drives Development Efforts by Nigerians Abroad

International development encompasses a wide range of considerations, from macroeconomics to poverty reduction. A comprehensive understanding must also account for the perspectives of both developed and developing nations, particularly the often-overlooked role of faith and religion, especially within African diaspora communities engaged in development work.

The Historical Dismissal of Religion in Development

Historically, religion was often dismissed by academic institutions and key international development organizations. This stemmed from the belief that religion inherently promotes intolerance and regressive visions of the future, opposing the material nature of economic progress. The prevailing assumption was that modernization would lead to religion becoming a private affair. However, these doubts have been challenged and refuted by various academic disciplines, leading to a broader recognition of religion’s significance in development, despite its complex and sometimes controversial nature.

The Rise of Faith in Development Agendas

While religion’s importance in development agendas is increasingly acknowledged, there remains limited consideration of how African diaspora communities engage in development through a religious lens. Recent research has explored this gap, examining the significance of religious and faith identifications and the potential for new, faith-based interpretations of international development.

Case Study: Nigerian Diaspora in London

A case study involving interviews with first and second-generation London-based Christian and Muslim Nigerians revealed that religious identities and “narratives of faith” are integral to understanding how these diaspora communities engage in international development. Their approach to development is often grounded in religious and moral assessments and obligations.

Contributions and Motivations

The primary form of contribution from these communities is private cash remittances to the continent. Additionally, group non-monetary donations and services are provided to Nigeria through their places of worship. Developmental work is frequently motivated by religious and moral obligations, reflecting a sense of stewardship, compassion, reconciliation, and justice.

Personal Experiences and Transnational Giving

Personal experiences within interdenominational Christian and spiritual traditions demonstrate that spiritual closeness is a valued currency. Charitable parishioners routinely make personal sacrifices and contributions through churches and faith-based organizations, supporting philanthropic poverty alleviation missions in Africa. Traditions of transnational “giving” are incorporated into services and encouraged as symbolic expressions of faith.

Religious Development and Identity

For Nigerians, both Christian and Muslim identities provide a framework for their engagement in international development. They frame their development activities as consecrated acts, often viewing them as outward signs of inward grace and expressions of their religious identities. These activities are embedded within systems of moral expectations, family obligations, and cultural norms, which also contribute to their sense of “Nigerianness” or “Africanness.”

Reframing International Development

Nigerians in the diaspora understand development both as a practical performance of their faith and as actions that represent their religious selves. They often conceive of religion and their religious identities as development itself. Consequently, international development needs to be reframed to accommodate faith, specifically incorporating the Afro-religious performances of transnational giving.