Ethical Implications of Poverty Alleviation Programs in Selected Baptist Churches in Nigeria

In Nigeria, pervasive poverty contrasts sharply with the nation’s resource wealth, prompting Baptist churches to implement diverse poverty alleviation programs rooted in their theological commitment to holistic salvation. This study examines the nature and ethical implications of these initiatives in selected Baptist churches, offering insights into their transformative potential. Despite the Baptist Church’s contributions to poverty alleviation, studies like Onah et al. highlight challenges such as favouritism and dependency, with limited focus on the ethical dimensions of these programs, creating a gap in understanding their moral and practical efficacy. This study aims to analyze the nature and ethical implications of poverty alleviation programs in First Baptist Church, Lagos; First Baptist Church, Ogbomoso; and Gbagura Baptist Church, Abeokuta, to enhance their effectiveness and ethical integrity. The study adopts Haynes Basic Needs Theory, emphasizing essential provisions, and Rees Comprehensive Development Framework, advocating systemic reform, to evaluate the balance between immediate relief and sustainable impact. Data were gathered through a review of academic literature, church reports, and historical documents, supplemented by case studies of the selected churches. Scope and Justification: The study focuses on three Baptist churches in Nigeria, chosen for their diverse geographic and programmatic contexts, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of urban and rural initiatives. Programs include direct aid, education, skill acquisition, and advocacy, but face ethical challenges like inequity and dependency. The study recommends implement transparent beneficiary selection, prioritize empowerment, and establish robust monitoring. Baptist churches significantly contribute to poverty alleviation, but ethical navigation is crucial for sustainable impact.