Nearly all Christians in northeastern Nigeria have lost family members due to the violence perpetrated by terrorist groups. Entire congregations have been displaced, and many pastors have been forced to leave the region. In the midst of the volatile situation, it takes great courage and faith to openly worship and serve Christ in this West African nation, where more followers of Jesus are killed each year for their faith than all the other countries of the world combined.

In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Mark Lipdo, the founder and CEO of Stefanos Foundation. For the past 23 years, this foundation has met the needs of hundreds of thousands of victims in Nigeria. Today, the ministry continues to faithfully stand alongside persecuted Christians who have suffered turmoil, forced displacement and the loss of family members. Amid ongoing concerns about the spread of Christian persecution throughout Nigeria, Mark explains why providing practical care, love and support to these suffering believers is more crucial than ever.

Date: February 2025
Length: 39 minutes

Episode Notes

Stefanos Foundation on Facebook: Facebook.com/StefanosFoundation
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: VOMCanada.com
Pastor Gideon Dawel’s story: VOMCanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-gideon-tragedy-forgiveness.htm
Nankpak Kumzwam’s story: VOMCanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-nanpak-2024.htm