Persecution in Nigeria (an update)
Daniel JusticeShare
A Cry for Justice and a Call to Faithful Action
As we enter this new year of 2026, our hearts are heavy with the ongoing trials faced by our fellow believers in Nigeria. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:26 that "if one member suffers, all suffer together." Today, we stand in solidarity with our Nigerian family, who continue to endure unimaginable persecution at the hands of Islamist militants. Let us remember that our God is sovereign, and through Him, we can be instruments of hope and change.
The Christmas Strikes: A Bold Response Amidst Ongoing Violence
On Christmas Day 2025, the United States launched targeted airstrikes against Islamic State-affiliated camps in northwest Nigeria's Sokoto State, using Tomahawk missiles to hit remote terrorist strongholds.
President Trump described the operation as a "Christmas present" to the terrorists, aimed at halting the "vicious killing" of innocent Christians.
Coordinated with the Nigerian government, these strikes reportedly eliminated multiple militants and were praised by Nigerian officials as part of joint anti-terrorism efforts. However, local residents in areas like Jabo village have expressed confusion, denying a strong ISIS presence and emphasizing peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims.While the strikes brought international attention to the crisis, they have not stemmed the tide of violence. Advocacy groups estimate that over 3,000 Christians were killed in faith-related attacks in 2025, with some reports suggesting figures as high as 7,000 in the first eight months alone.
The violence, perpetrated by groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), and armed Fulani herdsmen, is concentrated in northern and Middle Belt regions, blending religious extremism with ethnic and land disputes.
Recent Developments: Attacks Continue into the New Year
Tragically, the new year has already seen fresh bloodshed. On New Year's Eve 2025, at least eight Christians were killed in an attack on the predominantly Christian Bum community in Plateau State's Vwang District.
Nigerian officials reportedly ignored early warnings about the impending assault, leading to the suspension of local New Year's celebrations.
In Adamawa State, ISWAP militants have recently attacked multiple Christian villages, killing and kidnapping believers while burning churches and homes to the ground. The attackers have declared all Christians in Nigeria as "legitimate targets," demanding conversion to Islam or death.
Watchdog organizations like Release International warn that without stronger intervention, Christian deaths could double in 2026 due to expanding jihadist influence and governmental inaction.
Nigeria's redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom violations in late 2025 has paved the way for U.S. sanctions, expected early this year. Rep. Riley Moore plans to present President Trump with a report outlining 30 concrete actions, including visa bans and asset freezes on complicit officials.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's vow to combat Islamist persecution of Christians has drawn warnings from Nigerian Muslim leaders to "steer clear."
These events underscore a grim reality: over 16 million people, many of them Christians, remain displaced across sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria as a primary hotspot. While some advocates express cautious optimism about U.S. involvement, the persistent attacks highlight the need for comprehensive reforms, including better security, prosecution of perpetrators, and addressing root causes like governance failures.
What We Can and Should Do as Believers
Beloved in Christ, we are not powerless in the face of this suffering. As James 2:15-16 urges, faith without works is dead, let us respond with both spiritual fervor and practical steps. Here is guidance on how Christians worldwide can support our Nigerian brethren:
- Pray Without Ceasing: Dedicate time daily to intercede for Nigeria's Christians. Pray for protection (Psalm 91), courage for the persecuted (Ephesians 6:18-20), wisdom for leaders, and conviction for perpetrators. Organize prayer vigils in your churches or online groups, lifting up specific needs like the safety of displaced families and the end of ISWAP's threats.
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Advocate and Raise Awareness: Contact your elected officials to urge stronger international pressure on Nigeria. In the U.S., support bills for sanctions and aid. Sign petitions, such as those from CitizenGO calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio to compel action against the mass slaughter.
Share verified stories on social media to combat silence, remember, "the righteous care about justice for the poor" (Proverbs 29:7). Challenge narratives that downplay the religious dimension of the violence. -
Support Relief Efforts: Donate to reputable organizations like Open Doors, Release International, Alliance Defending Freedom, or the Christian Emergency Alliance, which provide aid, rebuilding support, and advocacy for persecuted believers.
Your contributions can supply Bibles, food, shelter, and legal aid to those in need. - Foster Unity and Preparedness: Educate your community about global persecution, host seminars or Bible studies on standing firm in faith (Hebrews 13:3). Prepare spiritually for potential trials in your own context, drawing strength from Nigerian Christians' resilience.