THE RISE OF PENTECOSTALISM AND LAND USE IN NIGERIA (1980–2026)

Abstract

This study examines the rise of Pentecostalism in Nigeria and its implications for land use, urban expansion, and environmental transformation between 1980 and 2026. Since the late twentieth century, Pentecostal Christianity has emerged as one of the fastest-growing religious movements in Nigeria, profoundly reshaping the social, economic, and physical landscapes of both urban and rural communities. The rapid proliferation of church planting, mega-church auditoriums, prayer camps, retreat centres, educational institutions, and commercial religious infrastructures have generated significant changes in patterns of land acquisition and utilization across the country. Using a historical and analytic approach, the study draws from religious history, urban studies, environmental sociology, and political economy to analyze the relationship between Pentecostal growth and land use. The research employs qualitative and documentary methods, including archival materials, government land policies, church records, scholarly publications, media reports, and case studies of major Pentecostal organizations in Nigeria. Particular attention is given to the spatial expansion of Pentecostal ministries in cities such as Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and Ibadan, where extensive religious constructions have altered ecological systems, transportation patterns, and settlement structures. The research therefore recommends that government agencies strengthen urban planning and environmental regulations relating to religious infrastructures; that churches conduct environmental impact assessments before embarking on major construction projects; and that religious institutions adopt sustainable building practices and ecological conservation strategies.