JOCRES Volume 6 Number 1 2026

Poverty Covenant-Breaking Principles and the Realities of Hard work in Nigeria

Okechukwu Orah, MDiv. Prof. Omaka Ngele
Abstract

The increasing rate of prosperity preaching in Nigeria is posing serious challenges to the realities of hard-work. Poverty remains a persistent socio-economic challenge in Nigeria despite the country’s vast human and natural resources. The complexity of poverty in Nigeria is compounded by various socio-cultural and economic factors, including prevailing principles that may influence individuals' attitudes towards work and success. This research examines covenant-breaking principles and the realities of hard work in the Nigerian context, explores the Church contribution to curb misleading theologies of poverty covenant-breaking, and examines the destructive Pentecostal approach to poverty covenant-breaking. This research also explores how covenant-breaking principles influence individuals' perceptions and experiences of poverty in Nigeria, the perceived effectiveness of hard work in improving economic outcomes among Nigerians facing poverty, etc. This research adopts a historical method with descriptive approach and involves a review of socio-economic literature, as well as data from Journals and Textbooks. This research highlights the need for value reorientation and supportive economic policies that reward diligence and integrity. This research recommends that Church should always encourage hard work in the society, advice the government on matters concerning capacity building and human development and partner with the government on skill acquisition programmes.

Keywords: Church, Covenant-Breaking, Government, Hard Work, Nigeria, Poverty, Principles
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