The Persecution of Christians in Nigeria
How Violence and Discrimination Are Threatening One of Africa's Largest Christian Communities
Alexandra Audrey Tompson
Jan 8, 2025 - 9:51 PM
This article explores the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, highlighting the rise of extremist violence, displacement, and systematic attacks. It examines key findings from reports on religious violence and emphasizes the importance of global action to address this crisis.
Unfolding Genocide
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is a melting pot of cultures and religions. However, its rich diversity is overshadowed by escalating violence against Christians. Extremist groups, systemic discrimination, and displacement have created a humanitarian and faith crisis for millions.
A UK parliamentary report titled Nigeria: Unfolding Genocide? highlights Nigeria as the epicenter of global Christian killings, accounting for 89% of such deaths worldwide. This shocking statistic underscores the dire situation facing one of Africa's largest Christian populations.
Rising Threats
The rise of militant groups like Boko Haram, ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), and Fulani militants has left a trail of devastation in their wake. These groups target Christians in coordinated attacks, destroying villages, abducting individuals, and massacring entire communities.
Survivors recount chilling accounts of raids on churches and villages. Muslims who convert to Christianity face unimaginable challenges. Family rejection and societal ostracization are common, leaving converts isolated and vulnerable. Women and girls are disproportionately affected, often subjected to violence or forced marriages.
The displacement of Christian communities is widespread, with countless families forced into camps lacking basic necessities.
Debunking Misconceptions
The Unfolding Genocide report calls for independent investigations into atrocities committed against Christians.
While some argue against labeling the violence as genocide, evidence points to systematic patterns of religiously motivated killings and destruction.
Some observers have linked Nigeria’s crisis to resource conflicts exacerbated by climate change.
However, Nigerian leaders and advocacy groups reject this simplification. Reports from organizations like Aid to the Church in Need dismiss the notion that these attacks are solely about resources, emphasizing their deliberate religious targeting. They argue the violence stems primarily from ideological extremism, making international intervention critical.
A Call to Action
As Nigeria’s Christians endure persecution at an alarming scale, the world must not look away.
The election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has raised cautious optimism. While his administration has pledged to improve security and representation, progress has been slow. International advocacy remains key to ensuring accountability and policy changes that protect religious minorities.
Coordinated efforts by faith communities, governments, and NGOs can provide Christian communities in Nigeria with the support and security they desperately need. Together, we can ensure a future where freedom of religion is not a privilege but a universal right.
Alexandra Audrey Tompson
Editor-in-Chief | Lawyer (Admitted in New York; England & Wales)