Socioeconomic Impact of Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in Ibeme Autonomous Community
Chapter One
 Background to the Study
Religion has played a pivotal role in shaping societies globally, with the Roman Catholic Church standing out as one of the oldest and most influential institutions (McCaslin, 2019). The Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in Ibeme Autonomous Community serves as a testament to the enduring impact of the Church on the socio-economic fabric of communities, with profound historical roots, cultural influence, and economic contributions (McCaslin, 2019; Moyser, 2021; Rotimi, Mala, & Aiyegboyin, 2019).
McCaslin’s (2019) assessment of the historical development of the Saint Ita Church goes beyond a mere chronological account, unveiling intricate threads that connect the church’s inception to the broader historical context of the Ibeme Autonomous Community. This historical understanding is pivotal for comprehending the socio-economic dynamics that have unfolded over the years.
Moyser (2021) emphasizes the interconnectedness of politics and religion, highlighting how religious institutions, such as the Saint Ita Church, contribute to shaping cultural norms. The cultural influence of the Saint Ita Church on the identity and practices of the Ibeme Autonomous Community extends beyond religious rituals. It acts as a cultural anchor, influencing local practices, traditions, and social interactions (Moyser, 2021).
Examining the socio-economic contributions of the Saint Ita Church is crucial for understanding its role in community development. Rotimi, Mala, and Aiyegboyin (2019) suggest that these contributions may span various dimensions, from providing local employment opportunities to initiating or supporting community development projects. The economic impact of the church aligns with broader discussions on religion as a macro social force affecting various aspects of society (Van Buren, 2020).
In the context of Nigeria, the News Agency of Nigeria (2022) reports on the Buhari regime’s advocacy for inter-religious marriages for national unity, indicating the recognition of the role religious institutions can play in fostering social cohesion. This aligns with the broader theme of inter-religious relations, as discussed by scholars like Nweke (2020), who explores African traditional religion in the context of encounters between Christianity and Islam.
In essence, the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in Ibeme Autonomous Community, with its historical roots, cultural influence, and economic contributions, mirrors the broader influence of the Roman Catholic Church globally. These insights are crucial for comprehending the socio-economic dynamics of the Ibeme Autonomous Community and recognizing the role of religious institutions, such as the Saint Ita Church, in shaping community development (McCaslin, 2019; Moyser, 2021; Rotimi, Mala, & Aiyegboyin, 2019).
Statement of Problem
The socio-economic impact of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in the Ibeme Autonomous Community has been a subject of interest, yet existing research presents gaps that necessitate further exploration. While McCaslin’s (2019) examination sheds light on the historical development of the church, there is a need to delve deeper into the specific ways in which this history has influenced the contemporary socio-economic landscape of the community. Understanding the nuances of this influence will contribute to a more comprehensive grasp of the church’s role in shaping local dynamics.
Moyser’s (2021) focus on the cultural influence of religious institutions provides valuable insights, but a gap remains in the exploration of how this cultural influence translates into tangible socio-economic outcomes. Exploring the cultural practices and identity influenced by the Saint Ita Church and their direct impact on economic activities and development projects will provide a more holistic understanding.
Moreover, while Rotimi, Mala, and Aiyegboyin (2019) touch upon the economic contributions of religious organizations, including the potential for job creation and community development initiatives, there is a lack of specificity regarding the Saint Ita Church in Ibeme. A focused investigation into the nature and extent of the economic contributions of this particular church will address this gap and offer practical insights for community development strategies.
The gaps identified in existing literature point to the need for a more nuanced and localized examination of the socio-economic impact of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in Ibeme. By addressing these gaps, the research can contribute valuable knowledge that goes beyond a general understanding of the church’s influence, providing actionable insights for community leaders, policymakers, and religious institutions aiming to enhance socio-economic development in similar contexts.
Objectives of the Study
The following specific objectives will be examined:
To assess the historical development of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
- To examine the cultural influence of the church on the community’s identity and practices.
- To analyze the socio-economic contributions of the church to the development of the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
 Research Questions
To guide the study, the following research questions will be  examined:
- What is the historical background of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church in the Ibeme Autonomous Community?
- How has the church influenced the cultural identity and practices of the community?
- What are the specific socio-economic contributions of the church to the development of the Ibeme Autonomous Community?
Research Hypotheses
Based on the research questions, the following hypotheses will be investigated:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- The historical development of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church does not significantly correlate with the overall historical trajectory of the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
- The cultural influence of the church is not positively associated with the preservation and continuation of traditional practices in the community.
- The socio-economic contributions of the church have not played a crucial role in fostering development in the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- The historical development of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church significantly correlates with the overall historical trajectory of the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
- The cultural influence of the church is positively associated with the preservation and continuation of traditional practices in the community.
- The socio-economic contributions of the church have played a crucial role in fostering development in the Ibeme Autonomous Community.
Significance of the Study
This research carries considerable importance for a diverse array of stakeholders, encompassing historians, sociologists, policymakers, and the Ibeme Autonomous Community. The outcomes of this study are poised to augment the current reservoir of knowledge regarding the influence of religious institutions on community development. These insights, in turn, hold the potential to guide forthcoming research endeavours and shape future policy decisions aimed at fostering community growth.
Furthermore, the study stands to be a crucial asset for the leadership of the Saint Ita Roman Catholic Church. The findings will provide them with a nuanced understanding of their impact on the socio-economic fabric of the Ibeme Autonomous Community. Armed with this knowledge, church leaders can explore avenues for amplifying their positive influence and strategically contributing to the overall well-being of the community. As such, this research not only adds to the academic discourse but also offers practical implications for religious institutions, community leaders, and policymakers seeking to strengthen the socioeconomic foundations of communities through informed decision-making.
References
- Asika, N. (2020). Research methodology in behavioral sciences. Ikeja: Longman Nigeria Plc.
- Association of Nigeria Women Business Network. (2022). Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://anwbn.org.ng/
- Ayorinde, S. A. (2019). Religion and national unity. In M. A. Folorunsho, I. O. E. Oyeneye, R. I. Adebayo (Eds.), Religion and modernity, 1–12. National Association for the Study of Religions and Education (NASRED).
- Beiske, B. (2017) Research Methods: Uses and Limitations of questionnaires, interviews and case studies. GRIN Verlag.
- Bell, E., Bryman, A., and Harley, B. (2019). Business Research Methods. 5th Ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
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