International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The increasing emergence and visibility of LGBTQ+IA individuals has continued to spark intense debates and controversies worldwide, particularly in typical African societies such as Port Harcourt, Nigeria due to their deep-rooted socio-cultural and religious beliefs against such practices.
Objective: This study investigated the use of religiocentric communication approaches in combating LGBTQ+IA lifestyle choices, with a focus on the intersection of religion, culture, and human sexuality.
Method: The study adopted qualitative research method, and used interviews to generate data from participants with experience in religious communication approaches. The population of the study was clergymen. Snowball sampling was used to select four clergymen of the Anglican Church in Port Harcourt. Interview guide and interview schedule were used to collect data from participants. The method of data analysis was the Yinn’s Explanation Building Techniques. Generated data were analysed and presented in tables.
Result: Findings show that access to new media through smartphones, tablets and computers have increased indulgence in LGBTQIA lifestyle, immorality, nudity, cyberbullying and hook-ups. The religious communication approach used were production of regular salvation messages (podcast), intentional discipleship training aimed at grooming, and mentoring the youths, organising crusades, revivals, youth conferences, bible studies, and counselling; as well as awareness campaign on the danger of wrong application of the new media. It also found that the benefits have led to reduced inordinate affection, engaging in spiritual exercises such as reading and applying God’s word to situations, living a purpose driven life, and enhanced economic growth and stability.
Conclusion: The conclusion of the study is that some youths in Port Harcourt, Nigeria practice LGBTQ+IA, though secretly; but religion is however, playing a noticeable role in dissuading them from the act. Unique contribution: The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards LGBTQ+IA individuals, and provides insights into the development of effective communication strategies for promoting social acceptance and inclusion. Key recommendation: The study recommends that the religious bodies, government, teachers and parents should undertake measures to control adverse effects of new media consumption by the youths. Youth counsellors should provide information specifically on the danger inherent in the negative uses of new media and analyze the safe, respectful use of technology and possible benefits.