The Lurgid State of Christianity in Nigeria: A Call to Action, By Amb Ayibaemi Ken-Fashola

“Too many passive Christians in Nigeria, busy quoting Bible verses without taking any interest in the very existential challenges that surround them. I am afraid many will be busy on religiosity when the enemy will come upon them & overtake them.”
Rev. Segun Agbetuyi

As I read these poignant words from Rev. Segun Agbetuyi on Wednesday night, his concerns resonated deeply in my heart and that of many Nigerians, highlighting the alarming disconnect between faith and action in the face of escalating insecurity and Christian persecution.

Nigeria, once a beacon of hope and stability in Africa, now finds itself grappling with unprecedented violence and bloodshed, particularly against Christians.

The statistics are staggering: over 52,000 Christians killed since 2009, with thousands more displaced, abducted, or forced into hiding.
The perpetrators, ranging from Boko Haram to Fulani militants and ISWAP, seem emboldened by the lack of effective government response and international intervention

The Nigerian government’s efforts to combat this crisis have been criticized as inadequate, with some accusing authorities of turning a blind eye to the plight of Christians. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has seemingly taken steps, including approving a joint working group with the US to address security challenges, but are these efforts genuine or do they even feel like a drop in the ocean?
So much more needs to be done

Measures Being Taken

The US has designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act, imposing visa restrictions on those involved in anti-Christian violence.

Organizations like Open Doors and Global Christian Relief are providing vital support, including discipleship, trauma care, and economic empowerment, to persecuted Christians.

Nigerian Christian youth are demanding action, calling for official recognition of targeted ethnic and religious violence, and community-based security measures

Intelligence and Information Sharing

1. The Nigerian government has established a National Counter-Terrorism Centre, but its effectiveness is unclear.
2. Local communities and organizations are working together to share intelligence and provide early warning systems.

Youth Awareness and Preparedness

1. Many Nigerian youths especially in the South, are literally aware of the security situation, but more needs to be done to educate them on how to respond to direct threats and ongoing infiltration from the persecutors.
2. it doesn’t start in a day, you know?
3. Churches and organizations should be providing training and resources to help Christians navigate these challenging times. Organisations like the boys’ brigade, scout, and others need to be retrained from ‘social clubs’ to proper standby civilian brigades that can help our security organisations to effectively do their jobs

The situation in Nigeria is dire, but it’s not hopeless. It’s time for Christians to move beyond mere religiosity and engage with the existential challenges facing their environments and communities. We must pray, advocate, and take action to support those affected by persecution.

As the Bible says, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).

The seeming lethargy of southern Christians who worship “as usual” is a concern, especially given the escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria. Many are wondering what preemptive measures are being taken to protect Christians, particularly with the influx of strangers from the north into cities and communities.

It’s time to work together to bring hope, justice, and peace to Nigeria.

Current Situation:

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1. Over 52,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria since 2009, with thousands more displaced or abducted.
2. Boko Haram and ISWAP are the main perpetrators, seeking to eradicate Christianity from northern states.
3. Violence has spread to the Middle Belt and southern regions, putting more Christians at risk

Measures Being Taken:

1. Government Response: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has taken steps, including approving a joint working group with the US to address security challenges.
2. Community Efforts: Local churches and organizations are providing support, including discipleship, trauma care, and economic empowerment.
3. International Support: Organizations like Open Doors and Global Christian Relief are working with local partners to strengthen Christians and provide relief aid

Protective Measures:

1. Intelligence Sharing: Local communities and organizations are working together to share information and provide early warning systems.
2. Security Training: Churches and organizations should be providing training and resources to help Christians navigate security threats.
3. Advocacy: Nigerian Christians should be boldly demanding action, calling for practical official steps against targeted violence and Christian based persecutions

It’s crucial for Christians in Nigeria to remain vigilant and informed about the security situation.
By working together and supporting one another, they can build resilience and protect their communities before they are blind sighted or overwhelmed.