Mass Baptism and the Expansion of the Russian Orthodox Church's Presence in Nigeria

In early October 2026, a significant event took place in Benue State, Nigeria: 58 people received the sacrament of baptism and joined the Russian Orthodox Church. The sacrament was administered by Father George Maximov, head of the Missionary Department of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa, and Father Daniel Agbaza, dean of the Nigerian parishes.

The new converts had previously belonged to a non-canonical religious group but requested to join the Russian Orthodox Church. The preparation and catechesis of the parishioners lasted several months under the guidance of Father Daniel. After the sacrament was administered, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated in Ugbaikyo for the faithful of the two united parishes.

Priest George Maximov’s trip to Nigeria, which began on September 25, included visits to parishes in four states. During the visit, the priest met with leaders of other non-canonical groups wishing to come under the omophorion of the Russian Church and preached to an audience of over 1,000 people. Among the key events were a Divine Liturgy at the parish of St. Matrona of Moscow in Ukpor and the presentation of the book *The Foundations of the Spiritual Life* in English.

In addition, in Benue State, representatives of communities belonging to the Alexandrian Orthodox Church sent letters to Metropolitan Constantine requesting admission into the Russian Orthodox Church. Concluding his visit—during which the King of the Igbo people bestowed upon Father George the title of Supreme Chief—the missionary traveled to Ghana on a working visit.