No One is Prepared For What's About to Happen in Nigeria"... Author: Off The Kirb Ministries
Alarming Rise in Attacks on Christians Reported Across Nigeria
Abuja, Nigeria – A dire situation is unfolding for Nigeria's Christian population, with reports indicating a significant escalation in violence, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country. While largely underreported in international media, the crisis has led to a devastating loss of life and widespread displacement.
According to recent figures, over 3,000 Christians were reportedly killed in Nigeria last year alone due to the ongoing violence. Since 2009, the cumulative death toll is estimated to exceed 45,000. Furthermore, more than 16 million Christians in Sub-Saharan Africa, a substantial portion from Nigeria, have been forcibly displaced from their homes, many now residing in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps for years, unable to return due to security threats.
The violence, attributed to various non-state armed groups, has resulted in extensive damage to homes and places of worship. Communities, particularly those with a strong Christian presence, have been severely impacted, forcing many to flee suddenly.
Church leaders across Nigeria have voiced urgent appeals to the government to address the escalating insecurity. Bishops have recently called for increased government intervention. Specific incidents highlighted include over 100 fatalities in Benue and Plateau states in June, and an additional 179 deaths around Easter in 2025. The Archbishop of Abuja has publicly demanded an end to the "carnage."
Beyond direct attacks, Christians in northern Nigeria reportedly face systemic discrimination, often relegated to "second-class citizen" status. Converts to Christianity frequently face ostracization from their families, or worse, forcing them to abandon their homes. This pattern of persecution is described as a continuous, week-after-week occurrence, spreading from village to village and now extending to previously safe areas in the south. Families in affected regions reportedly fear attending church at night and some even resort to sleeping in the bush for safety.
The lack of widespread international attention to this humanitarian crisis remains a significant concern for advocates and affected communities. Organizations like Open Doors are reported to be on the ground providing practical assistance to those impacted by the violence.
