Church property attacked by Muslims in Kano state

27 May 2010

Kano State, Nigeria Muslim youths launched an attack on the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) premises in Kano state in northern Nigeria on May 19, destroying two church buildings and a pastor's residence. The attack reportedly grew out of a land dispute. "The problem started when some Christian youths of ECWA church were converted to Islam," said the Rev. Lado Abdul, chairman of ECWA district in Kano. "They swore that the ECWA church would not remain in the area, as they would do everything possible to chase Christians out from Kiru." Abdul also lamented the denial of rights to Christians in Kano by area Muslims. "Here in Kano, nobody gives you land to build a church," he said. "The old churches built before now are being demolished for reasons no one can easily grasp." Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack and police are reportedly continuing to investigate the situation. (Source: Compass Direct)

Pray that the believers of this church will be bold in faith in the midst of opposition. Ask God to work in the hearts and lives of militant Muslims in Nigeria, drawing them to repentance and faith in Him (Acts 9:1-19). Pray for peace throughout Nigeria.

For more information on the persecution of Nigerian Christians, click here.

Nigeria

Current Ministry Projects
VOMC works with in-country partners to encourage and strengthen persecuted Christians through a variety of methods. Christians are equipped with audio bibles to distribute to their persecutors. Christian widows receive skills training and trauma counselling as a way to provide an income for their families and heal from the trauma they’ve faced in losing their husbands. Children who have lost parents and relatives due to attacks are provided with a safe place to grow and be nurtured. Medical fees are paid for Christians who have suffered injuries due to attacks by Boko Haram and Fulani. Discipleship and vocational training are given to Muslim Background Believers to help them start their new lives spiritually and practically. The Glenn Penner Scholarship Award is used to help equip persecuted Christians completing their Masters and have a heart to share the Gospel with the lost in their community.

Project Funds: Women’s Ministry, Bibles, Medical Fund, Families of Martyrs, Equipping the Saints, Relief & Development
Country Information
Population
230,842,743 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Hausa (30), Yoruba (15.5), Igbo (15.2), Fulani (6), Tiv (2.4), Kanuri/Beriberi (2.4), Ibibio (1.8), Izaw/Izon (1.8), Other (24.7)

Religion (%)
Islam (53.5), Christianity (45.9), Other (0.6)

Leader
President Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu (2023)

Government type
Federal presidential republic

Legal system
Mixed legal system of English common law, Islamic law (in 12 northern states), and traditional law

Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Nigeria
May God minister great comfort and healing to all who have been injured or bereaved as a result of the militants' brutal attacks. In addition, pray for the remaining abducted Chibok schoolgirls, that they will be assured of the Lord's abiding presence as they await release from captivity. Continue to uphold President Tinubu and other members of the Nigerian government as they make further attempts to rescue the remaining girls and provide protection for vulnerable citizens. As they persevere in their endeavours to overcome terrorism, may they be granted wisdom, courage, strength and help from on high.