On 1 October, Nigeria celebrates its Independence Day. It should be a time of celebration and unity. But the regular attacks on Christians in the northern and central states show just how sharply the country is divided along religious and ethnic lines.

Since 1999, tens of thousands have lost their lives in religiously-motivated violence. A militant Islamic group called Boko Haram is trying to impose its vision of a Muslim country on Nigeria. In fact, after a series of particularly brutal attacks last year, Boko Haram issued a statement: "Christians in Nigeria should accept Islam, that is true religion, or they will never have peace."

Thank God for Reverend Yunusa Nmadu, CEO of CSW Nigeria, leading a church which pioneers reconciliation work in their neighbourhood;

This week please:

• Pray that the reconciliation initiatives would be successful so that communities are able to live together peacefully;
  
• Ask God to strengthen Reverend Yunusa in his personal spiritual walk as he comforts and encourages families of victims;
  
• Pray for CSW's advocacy work with the UN and EU, shaping appropriate political responses to events in Nigeria,
  
• Pray for guidance for the Government of Nigeria as they try to contain the violence;
  
• Pray for the leaders of Boko Haram, that their hearts would be changed and the killing would stop;
  
• Ask God to pour out his peace on Nigeria as it celebrates its Independence Day.