Transformation after Early Ecclesiastical Architecture in Nigeria (1845-1980)

Transformation in ecclesiastical architecture had always been noticed from its evolution as each epoch tried to express its own time. This study examined the characteristic factors that led to the transformations from the early period of ecclesiastical architecture in Nigeria to the second phase of its development. The study area was Lagos because it was the cradle of ecclesiastical architecture in Nigeria and its nature being one of the metropolitan cities in the world encouraged the spread of Christianity which is adjudged to be an urban phenomenon. Since the study was explorative and historic in nature, qualitative research methods were adopted. The findings showed that early Churches in Nigeria were established by foreign missionaries and the administration and construction of their church buildings including financing and supply of labour with materials depended largely on foreign input. The second phase witnessed indigenization of the foreign established Churches and the establishment of African Independent and Pentecostal ones. The patronage of local input in terms of labour force and supply of materials was becoming obvious.