ROLES OF CHRISTIAN ETHICS IN ADDRESSING MORAL DECLINE AMONG NIGERIAN YOUTHS

Abstract

The increasing moral decline among Nigerian youths has become a significant 
concern for educators, religious leaders, and policymakers, manifesting in 
juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, academic dishonesty, and erosion of 
societal values. This study examines the role of Christian ethics in guiding the 
moral behavior of youths in Nigeria, using a literature review methodology to 
analyze historical, religious, and social perspectives on youth morality. The 
review explores the underlying causes of moral decline, including peer influence, 
exposure to technology and social media, poverty, and weakened family 
structures, while assessing the contributions of churches, families, and schools in 
fostering ethical development. Findings indicate that Christian ethical teachings 
provide a structured framework for value-based behavior, character formation, 
and ethical decision-making, offering practical guidance for addressing moral 
lapses among youths. However, challenges such as secularization, inadequate 
integration of ethics into formal education, limited parental engagement, and 
cultural conflicts reduce the effectiveness of ethical interventions. The study 
recommends actionable strategies including structured values education 
programs, church-based mentorship initiatives, parental involvement, and policy 
support aimed at reinforcing ethical standards. By integrating Christian ethics into 
both formal and informal education, stakeholders can enhance the moral 
resilience of Nigerian youths, mitigate ethical challenges, and promote social 
cohesion. These insights have significant implications for educators, 
policymakers, religious organizations, and families seeking to cultivate moral 
values and guide youths toward responsible citizenship and ethical decision
making.