‘The same security arrangements have been ongoing for 20 years. Unless there is a drastic change in command and control, it is effectively an official death sentence on us.’ – The Most Reverend Benjamin Kwashi, the Anglican Archbishop of Jos

Successive Nigerian authorities have failed to protect vulnerable Christian communities in the country’s centre from attacks by terrorist groups for over a decade. The situation worsened significantly under the last administration, and is likely to deteriorate even further. For example, 629 people were murdered by non-state actors between 29 May and 13 July, and abductions for ransom continue to occur.

CSW receives reports of violence on an almost daily basis, and there are legitimate concerns that the relentless killings in the country’s northern and central states may bear the hallmarks of atrocity crimes.

Más información en csw.org.uk/nigeria

Sunday 15 October

In July the All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief published an updated version of its seminal report on the crisis in central Nigeria. Pray that the report’s recommendations would be taken forward, not only by the UK government but also by the international community.

Monday 16 October

Praise God for the appointment of Reverend Yunusa Nmadu as full-time CEO of CSW-Nigeria. Ask the Lord to protect and guide Reverend Yunusa and the team as they continue to bring vital support and comfort to vulnerable communities across the country, and to raise awareness of freedom of religion or belief violations.

Tuesday 17 October

Earlier this year, Nigeria held elections that were marred by irregularities and violence. At the time of writing, the Supreme Court is set to hear challenges regarding the declared result and the eligibility of Bola Ahmad Tinubu, after five Appeal Court judges ruled in his favour while discarding legal precedent. Pray for justice and impartiality to prevail.

Wednesday 18 October

‘The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.’ Pray that Christians in Nigeria would see the truth of Psalm 46:7 in action in their lives today.

Thursday 19 October

Sixteen children taken from the Du Merci orphanages in December 2019 remain in a Kano State government orphanage, despite the acquittal of the Du Merci co-founder, Professor Solomon Tarfa, earlier this year. Pray that the family would soon be reunited.

Friday 20 October

Today marks the third anniversary of the Lekki Toll Gate massacre, in which Nigerian security forces opened fire on peaceful demonstrators who had gathered to protest the notorious SARS police unit. Pray that those still waiting for justice would receive it, and everyone behind the massacre would be held accountable.

Saturday 21 October

Dear Lord, we ask you to deliver the nation of Nigeria from all whose hearts are set on injustice and violence. Protect the vulnerable and expose those who use power for their own gain. Move the hearts of the international community to greater action, we pray. Amen.

Descargue una copia imprimible del Diario de Oración de esta semana.