Trends in Islamic Propagation (Da‘wah) in Parts of Eastern Nigeria

Islam in Nigeria received a boost during the colonial era to extend its propagation mission into eastern Nigeria (or Eastern Region). This is home to the Igbo, Ijaw, Ibibio, Efik, Annang, Ejegham (Ekoi) and few smaller ethnic groups, which today occupy Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers States. While the predominance of Christianity in eastern Nigeria is not in doubt, the growing influence of Islam in the area is a subject of debate amongst scholars. This paper, based on qualitative research conducted in Abia, Imo, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa States, four of the nine states of this region, examines the trends and impacts of Islamic propagation in the area. It also considers the challenges of implanting Islam in a Christian-dominated environment. 

keywords: eastern nigeria, christianity, islamic propagation (da‘wah).