(Reading time: 1 - 2 minutes)
This child in Nigeria is so happy to receive
VOMC's Christmas Blessing package!


Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, is divided between a mainly Christian culture in the south and a radical Islamic agenda in the north -- the latter of which is characterized by massive riots, bombings and plans to create an Islamic state.

Back in 2009, the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram, an al-Qaida ally, vowed to rid the north of all non-Muslim influence, including Christianity. Since then, more than 3,000 people have been tragically killed by the insurgents' target of Christian villages, churches and homes. Children were not exempt in the vicious attacks and, as a result, many have been left wounded, traumatized and/or orphaned. In another incident this year, which took place on April 14th, at least 270 Nigerian schoolgirls were abducted by Boko Haram. To date, more than 200 of the girls are still missing. (A previous prayer alert report on this incident can be found here.)

During this month of December, The Voice of the Martyrs Canada is reaching out to the suffering Christians of Nigeria through the ministry's "Christmas Blessing" project. By providing these victimized believers needed practical aid through our various in-country projects, the compassion of Jesus and His healing touch is being extended to them in tangible ways. To be part of this "Christmas Blessing," you may go to our donation page.

Please remember to pray for God's protection over these targeted believers in northern Nigeria throughout the Christmas season, including the abducted schoolgirls who have yet to be located. May He minister healing to those still suffering from the aftermath of the attacks. Ask Him to also touch the hardened hearts of the perpetrators, giving them the ability to sense their wrongdoing and empathize with their victims, so they will no longer be oblivious to the immense pain and suffering they are causing so many innocent people (Ezekiel 11:19). May they, too, have the opportunity to experience the presence of God in their lives by acknowledging Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord.

Current Ministry Projects

Through a vast variety of projects, VOMC works with in-country partners to encourage and strengthen Nigerian Christians who have experienced extreme forms of persecution. Christian widows receive trauma counselling to help them heal from the aftermath of tragically losing their husbands due to persecution-related attacks. These widows are also provided skills training so they can have a practical means of income to support their families. Children who have lost their parents and other relatives during incidents of persecution are provided a safe place in which to grow and be nurtured. Medical fees are paid for Christians who have suffered serious injuries perpetrated by militants affiliated with Nigeria’s Boko Haram and Fulani groups. Discipleship and vocational training are being offered to Muslim-background believers to help them start their new lives spiritually and practically.

The ministry also gives persecuted Christians who are completing their master's degrees – and have a desire to share the Gospel in their communities – the opportunity to benefit as recipients of the Glenn Penner Scholarship Award. Another one of VOMC’s projects in Nigeria involves the distribution of food aid to persecuted Christians residing within Internal Displacement Persons' (IDP) camps. Through this distribution effort, displaced believers who have been forced to flee their homes and communities because of their faith not only receive daily sustenance but also the encouragement that’s needed to rebuild their lives.

Project Funds: Women’s Ministry, Bibles (Distribution), Medical, Families of Martyrs, Equipping the Saints, Relief & Development

Country Information

Population
219,463,862 (July 2021 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 Muhammadu Buhari (2015)

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 Buhari 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.

end

Select a Region

Nigeria News

  • Two Nigerian States Face a Spate of Violent Attacks
    A group of women laughing together while holding their children.
    Women and children at Mara's House (screenshot).
    Photo: 100 Huntley Street

    Recent attacks by militants in Nigeria have resulted in dozens of deaths, along with kidnappings and the destruction of homes. Many Christians were targeted in these repeated violent attacks, often the result of their perpetr

    ...