Churches Close Down as Boko Haram Claims Territory

Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau.
Wikipedia via Morning Star News

Scores of Christians have been killed, and numerous churches and a Bible school forced to close down, after militants from Boko Haram recently seized towns and villages in several states. "Boko Haram violence has been getting worse every day, and our members are fleeing the area by the thousands," a church leader shares. "...Borno and Adamawa states, where are our churches are located, have seen Boko Haram take over the army base. As a result, about 350 Christians have been killed."

The leader of Boko Haram recently stated in an online video that the militant group is establishing an Islamic caliphate in the overtaken areas. It is believed that the group is attempting to mimic the militant group Islamic State, which has announced their own caliphate in areas of Syria and Iraq. In response to the terrorist activity, the Nigerian army has recaptured several towns and is continuing to fight the insurgents.

Lift up the persecuted church in Nigeria, asking God to sustain and protect His precious children there. In particular, may those mourning the loss of loved ones in these latest assaults find peace in the firm assurance that Jesus has conquered death through the shedding of His blood. Also pray that the school and churches that have experienced closure will soon be able to reopen and continue their important ministry work. Please also intercede on behalf of Nigeria's leaders and authorities, asking that God grant them much wisdom as they attempt to thwart the evil plans of Boko Haram.

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.