ABSTRACT
Effective governance is crucial for achieving sustainable development. This chapter examines the political dimensions of Pentecostalism in Nigeria. It explores Pentecostal political engagement in broad terms to include Pentecostalism’s influence on direct political behaviour and electoral politics, as well as the structures and practices of civil society and their effect on political culture. Nigerian Pentecostals have employed a variety of political strategies, ranging from electoral politics and political protest to more implicit strategies such as prophecy and prayer. Recently, some Pentecostal leaders have adopted more long-term strategies by establishing new institutions, and hosting conferences and training programs geared towards reforming cultural values and practices and raising transformational leaders who will influence the political domain. I argue that these initiatives offer the most potential to reshape politics and achieve a democratic culture. The chapter begins by discussing the role of governance in development and its inclusion in the post-2015 sustainable development agenda. Second, I set the context by tracing the contours of Pentecostal political engagement since the 1970s. Third, I examine contemporary Pentecostal strategies to influence the political sphere and their potential for contributing to sustainable democracy. I give attention to socio-economic and political contexts while considering the significance of theology in shaping Pentecostal political behaviour.
