How do I join Freemasonry in Nigeria?
by Obinna Ogadah
(Abuja, Nigeria)
If I want to join the Freemasons how do I go about it, considering the fact that here in Nigeria Freemasonry is not that popular? I think there is only one lodge in Nigeria - please advise.
Dear Obinna,
Thank you for your most interesting question. While the Masonic organization is worldwide, membership in the fraternity begins locally. You will need to contact the Freemasons in your area and let them guide you through the process of petitioning for membership. To locate Masons near you just do a Web search using 'masonic lodge' or 'grand lodge' and add your city or locale.
Petitioning for membership is not a simple process and it may take some time, but nothing in life worth having is simple or easy. Our 'Joining Freemasons' page may help explain the process. It may not be exactly the same in Nigeria, but it will be similar.
I have been pleased to discover that Freemasonry appears to be alive and well in Nigeria. There are, in fact, three active Grand Lodges and many subordinate Lodges. The Provincial Grand Lodge of Nigeria, under the holding of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Ireland, appears to have the greatest presence in the Country. Here is a link to a page that lists the lodges under the Provincial Grand Lodge:
Provincial Grand Lodge of Nigeria holding under the Grand Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Ireland
There is also a fine page on the site about becoming a Mason.
Also, there is the District Grand Lodge of Nigeria under the auspices of the United Grand Lodge of England. Here is a link to their new Web site. I am certain that if you contact them they will be happy to assist you further.
District Grand Lodge of Nigeria
Finally, there is the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Their presence appears to be primarily represented by the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Scotland. Their Web sites seem somewhat confusing to me but they will no doubt be able to assist you through direct contact. Here is a link to the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter
The site uses frames, but click on the button in the left menu labeled "Overseas" and you will see there are three divisions within Nigeria which link to contact information for each.
I hope you will find this information helpful and useful in your search for more Light. Thank you again for contacting me and if I can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to call on me again.
Fraternally yours,
Tim
p.s. Here is a newly discovered site regarding Freemasonry in Nigeria. I hope it will be helpful:
Nigeria Freemasons.com