NIGERIAN ONLINE DATING AND MATCHMAKING PLATFORMS: ITS SOCIO-RELIGIOUS IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

This study examines the socio-religious implications of online dating and matchmaking platforms within the Nigerian context, a country characterized by diverse religious affiliations and strong cultural traditions. As digital technology increasingly influences romantic relationships, Nigerian youth and adults are turning to online platforms such as Tinder, Badoo, and locally developed apps like Naija-Date to seek romantic partnerships. The research explores how these platforms intersect with Nigeria’s religious values - primarily Christianity and Islam - and how they impact traditional norms surrounding courtship, gender roles, and morality. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 Nigerian singles aged 20 to 40 from Lagos and Port Harcourt to gather nuanced insights into personal motivations, religious considerations, and social perceptions regarding online dating. Overall, the study underscores the transformative role of online dating in Nigerian society, highlighting its potential to reshape social perceptions of love, marriage, and morality within a deeply religious culture. The paper discusses the implications for policymakers, religious leaders, and platform developers in fostering ethical, inclusive, and culturally sensitive online environments. This research made used of qualitative method as well as the utilized books, journals and internet sources. It recommends that research should explore how digital romance influences traditional marriage practices, gender dynamics, and religious perceptions over time. It concludes that further research into the long-term societal impacts of digital matchmaking in Nigeria is very necessary.