Chinese Religious Presence and Community Relations in Enugu State

The presence of Chinese nationals in Enugu State, South East Nigeria, has introduced new religious dynamics, as Chinese workers bring spiritual traditions and practices into a predominantly Christian environment. This study investigates Chinese religious expressions, including Buddhist, Taoist, and secular Confucian practices, and their interaction with Enugu State's indigenous religious landscape. A qualitative research design incorporating ethnographic observation and semi-structured interviews was adopted. Data were collected from 25 Chinese nationals residing in Enugu, ten Nigerian community and religious leaders, and eight representatives of local interfaith organisations. Findings indicate that most Chinese nationals in Enugu maintain low-key private religious practices, avoiding public displays in a devout Christian community. Some Chinese nationals attend local Christian churches as a social integration strategy rather than out of genuine conversion. A small Enugu-based Buddhist meditation group, largely composed of Chinese nationals, has welcomed ten Nigerian participants, creating an unexpected intercultural spiritual space. Community relations between Chinese nationals and local religious bodies are generally peaceful but characterised by mutual curiosity and limited deep engagement. The study concludes that religious coexistence in the Chinese-Nigerian community of Enugu is pragmatic and largely conflict-free, though proactive cultural dialogue initiatives could deepen mutual understanding. Formal religious exchange forums between Chinese national associations and Enugu State interfaith bodies are recommended.

Keywords: Chinese religion, Enugu State, religious coexistence, Sino-Nigerian relations, South East Nigeria