Date

5-20-2026

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Todd W. Schultz

Keywords

Insecurity, Christian Persecution, Nigerian Situation, Christian Clergy

Disciplines

Counseling

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe the lived experiences of Nigerian Christian clergy and persecution and insecurity in Nigeria using an online site. The central research question was: How do Nigerian Christian clergy describe their experiences in meeting the expectations of their congregants and communities amidst persecution and insecurity? Interviews were conducted to collect data from 10 participants and an analysis was performed. The results showed that Nigerian Christian clergy, under threats of fear, still meet the needs of their congregants, and that the congregants continue to seek support from their clergy. It was also found that the Nigerian Christian clergy and Christians are living in agony, dealing with consistent fear and trauma. Further, Nigerian Christian clergy struggle to obtain the necessary mental health support to meet their mental health needs. This study fills a gap found in the literature that a qualitative study should be performed from the Christian clergy’s perspective to investigate the frequency and intensity of their adversity and stress. It provides valuable insight into the Nigerian Christian clergy in their anticipation, equipping themselves, and responding to the insecurity and persecution that challenge them in their lives and ministry.

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