World leaders and other organizations quickly denounced the coup and called for order—to no avail.
Now our persecuted family in Niger is on high alert, given the sudden turn of events. At the moment, it’s unclear who is in charge …Â and without the rule of law, jihadists and Muslim extremists may become emboldened.
Niger is home to 24 million people and the vast majority—98%—identifies as Muslim. Our Christian brothers and sisters are clearly outnumbered, which puts them at risk of discrimination, violence and persecution. And organizations like Boko Haram and the Islamic State wait in the wings, ready to commit murderous acts.
The US Department of State reports that extremists recently attacked a Christian church in southwestern Niger, destroying church property, setting fire to the building and killing male believers as they tried to escape. This shocking display of violence decimated both the congregation and the local community, as newly widowed women were forced to flee to neighboring Burkina Faso with their young children.
With the military coup set in motion, the church in Niger must brace itself for an uncertain and difficult future.
As the world cautiously watches this tense situation unfold, our brothers and sisters in Niger covet your prayers. Please pray with us now.
God, we lift up the church in southwestern Niger that was attacked by extremists. Please send Your comforter, the Holy Spirit, to strengthen these widows and their children. Provide for their every need in this time of tremendous hardship.
Lord, in 1 Peter 3:14, Your Word says, “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” We pray this scripture over our persecuted family in Niger. In place of fear, give them confidence to stand firm in the face of severe persecution and adversity.
Please help restore the nation’s elected leadership and may Your will be done in Niger.
About The Author
Abigail Hart is a staff writer for Global Christian Relief, a nonprofit Christian ministry whose mission it is to amplify the voices of Christian persecution and help vulnerable believers so they can spread the gospel and advance the Great Commission. You can learn more by visiting our website at GlobalChristianRelief.org.
