The Catholic Church and Football in Nigeria, Today and Tomorrow: A Socio-Theological Assessment

Abstract

With a popularity that cuts across tribe, class, religion, culture, sex, physical constitution, and politics, football has become almost a Nigerian game. Apart from the government, many individuals, religious bodies and organizations played significant part towards its attaining such a status. One of such religious bodies is the Roman Catholic Church. In the past, this was mainly through its mission schools which produced many notable footballers, coaches, and administrators. This article, however, examines the nature of her involvement with football, today, and, then suggests ways of ensuring a much more engagement in the future so as to enhance not only the development of football in the country, but, also, the Church’s overall work of evangelization.