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In Nigeria, Christians suffer significant and severe persecution – to such a degree that Nigeria has been the most violent place in the world for followers of Jesus for several years. In northern Nigeria, 12 states have implemented Islamic law, creating a system where Christians live as second-class citizens, and conversion from Islam can be severely punished.
Violent Islamic militant groups also operate across northern Nigeria and into the country’s central region. Some of these groups – including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), an offshoot of Islamic State – target followers of Jesus and any properties owned by Christians. Other Christians, particularly farmers in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, are confronted by Islamic militants among the Fulani people, who disproportionately attack Christian communities with horrific violence.
In recent years, violence has increased and spilled into southern states. Much of it is perpetrated by Fulani militants hiding in the forests. Another contributor to insecurity for Christians in the south east is Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist group trying to carve out its own nation. IPOB has also oppressed and persecuted Christians, particularly Christian leaders who do not conform to their ideological requirements.
Persecution is most acute in the northern part of Nigeria, where Islamic militants operate with impunity. The situation is highly unstable but also hidden from view for many..
Christians – especially converts from Islam – living in states governed by Islamic law are also at great risk. Anyone suspected of blasphemy or insulting the Prophet Muhammad can be violently opposed and even killed in vigilante mob attacks.
“They did this to us because we are Christians. Since I went to that camp, all those who were kidnapped, I didn’t see any Muslims held there.”
"Rifkatu",a Nigerian Christian who was abducted and raped by Fulani militants
Violence continued unabated in Nigeria, which is why it continues to be ranked in the top ten of the World Watch List. In multiple instances, hundreds of Christians were killed or displaced because of attacks from Islamic militants. Most of these attacks were carried out by militant Fulani herdsmen, who continue to target Christian communities, leading to the displacement of millions of Christians. Attacks are also carried out by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, along with new extremist groups that are emerging.
Open Doors works through local church partners in Nigeria to provide both immediate and long-term care. This includes trauma counselling, emergency aid, discipleship training, socio-economic support, and persecution-response training.
God, we grieve with our brothers and sisters in Nigeria who endure such unthinkable violence. Be a strong shield and a rock for those who are displaced; be a comfort to those who grieve the loss of loved ones; restore the hopes of those who have been the victims of sexual violence; pour out Your Spirit upon Nigerian Christians, that they would catch a glimpse of Your work in their hearts and in their lives. Change the hearts of those who attack Christians. Bring peace, O God. It seems like an impossible prayer, but we know You alone can do this. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.