Nigeria is experiencing an increase in violence on several fronts: the upsurge in attacks by terrorist factions in the northeast; attacks by Fulani militia throughout the country; armed banditry in the north-west that is possibly terrorism-related; and kidnapping for ransom by armed groups. Yet we continue to be inspired by the courage and faith of the Christian communities, who hold fast to the truth that God will answer their prayers and bring forth justice. As we pray for the nation this week, we’re using the words of Psalm 138 (NLT) to lead our prayers. Find out more about Nigeria at csw.org.uk/nigeria
Sunday 24 May
As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving strength. Psalm 138:3
Ask God to strengthen those who’ve lost loved ones. Especially remember Mrs Mary Andimi, whose husband Rev Lawan Andimi (Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Adamawa state) was abducted and beheaded in January by a Boko Haram faction.
Monday 25 May
I will give you thanks O Lord with all my heart; I will sing your praises before the gods. Psalm 138:1
Give thanks for the life and testimony of Rev Andimi. Thank God for Mrs Andimi’s faith. In the aftermath of her husband’s death she declared, ‘Our faith is now ever stronger than at any other time...my husband was ready to go and be with the Lord. He knew where he was going and he was prepared for it.’
Tuesday 26 May
Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble. Psalm 138:6Though the Lord is great, he cares for the humble. (Psalm 138:6)
Ask God to protect Professor and Mrs Tarfa after their orphanages were raided and closed down in December 2019; the 27 children were moved to a government-run children’s home, where they are experiencing assault, abuse and pressure to convert. Eight have since been released but the youngest remain in the government-run home. The professor was charged with ‘criminal abduction of minors’ and is still in jail in Kano, facing the risk of Covid-19. Pray for his freedom and for the children to be returned to the only homes they’ve ever known.
Wednesday 27 May
I bow before your holy Temple as I worship. I praise your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness. Psalm 138:2a
Ask God to comfort the families and friends of 18-year-old Catholic student Michael Nandi, and mother of three Mrs Bola Ataga, who were murdered by their abductors in Kaduna state.
Thursday 28 May
The Lord will work out his plans for my life - for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for you made me. Psalm 138:8
It’s over two years since 17-year-old Leah Sharibu was abducted from her school in north-eastern Nigeria by a Boko Haram faction. She’s been in captivity ever since for refusing to convert in exchange for her freedom. Ask God for her miraculous and safe release.
Friday 29 May
Though I am surrounded by troubles, you will protect me from the anger of my enemies. Psalm 138:7
Pray for protection for communities under siege from armed groups. Remember those in Kaduna state, where kidnapping for ransom and militia attacks are rife and Christians are particularly targeted. Pray also for Plateau state, where 32 people died in a series of attacks on Bokkos LGA, and for the communities in Borno and Adamawa state under constant attack by Boko Haram factions.
Saturday 30 May
Lord, may you strengthen your people in Nigeria with your glorious power, so that they will have all the endurance, faith and patience they need. We ask you to hear our prayers for the peace and healing of the land. Amen.