Archbishop Daniel C. Okoh, who leads the Christian Association of Nigeria, is raising awareness about the growing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. He described these attacks as “a grave injustice that has persisted for far too long,” noting the absence of justice, adequate compensation, and essential protections.
“What we see is the systematic dismantling of Christian lives and livelihoods,” Archbishop Okoh stated. “The Church cannot remain silent. We need to vocalize our concerns, pray earnestly, and come together to fight against this evil.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is a major non-denominational Christian entity that represents around 100 million Christians, characterizing the situation in Nigeria as a humanitarian and moral crisis.
CAN urges action from the global Christian community, particularly in the U.S.
CAN is calling on Christians worldwide, especially in the United States, to advocate for their Nigerian counterparts and support them in prayer.
Last year, President Trump labeled Nigeria a “country of special concern.”
“USCIRF commends President Trump for addressing the crisis of religious freedom in Nigeria and designating Nigeria as a country of special concern,” said USCIRF Chair Vicki Hartzler. “This allows the U.S. government to work with Nigeria on a solid plan to hold those who commit violence accountable, safeguard people of faith, and rescue hostages.”
However, details about the proposed plans have not yet been disclosed.
Islamic terrorist group urges Christians to leave northern Nigeria
Since 2012, Boko Haram, an Islamic terrorist organization, has publicly called for Christians to abandon Muslim-majority northern Nigeria. Since that time, the frequency of attacks and killings of Christians has escalated nationwide.
The Nigerian government has often denied these attacks, despite reports from those whose families and friends have faced torture, murder, and other atrocities.
In a recent conversation with EWTN News, Sean Nelson, a senior global religious freedom advisor at ADF International, suggested that the government’s denial of these attacks could be politically motivated. He pointed out that Nigeria is roughly half Muslim and half Christian, with a Muslim majority in the north, where extremist groups have been active for about 25 years.
It’s sobering to consider that estimates indicate between 25,000 and 30,000 Nigerian Christians have been martyred over the past decade. Additionally, extremist actions have led to the destruction of over 15,000 churches and forced more than 300,000 Christians to flee their communities.
Alongside voicing support for Nigerian Christians and accompanying them in prayer, CAN urges Christians to bolster the efforts of Nigerian pastors and church leaders by providing resources for studying the Scriptures. One specific resource being highlighted is the African Studies Bible. Donations will help CAN with tasks like printing, secure transport, and direct distribution.
“Our pastors and leaders are truly on the front lines of faith,” Archbishop Okoh emphasized. “They shouldn’t feel isolated. Supporting their spiritual equipping is an act of resilience and hope.”
Learn more about CAN’s Bible Project.
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Christians continue to be the most persecuted religious group globally, Archbishop notes.
