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The situation for Christians worsened after the July 2023 coup, when General Abdourahamane Tiani, head of the presidential guard unit, declared himself Niger’s new leader. There were fears this would open the country to further attacks from Islamist extremists. The impact of this continued throughout 2024.
The jihadist group al-Sunnah wa Jama'ah (ASWJ) has made life increasingly difficult for Christians in Niger. In areas under militant control, church services and other events are carried out under the shadow of potential violence or physical attack. The presence of radical Islamist groups has led to frequent attacks and kidnappings, significantly limiting the freedom and safety of Christians. It’s also led to a rise in attacks on Christian property, such as churches, schools and health-care centres.
Those who leave Islam to follow Jesus face pressure from their families to renounce their new faith. Pressure also comes from the authorities, and this is likely to increase in the near future. The legal process for registering a church is arduous and protracted, and legal roadblocks have been used to prevent Christians from gathering. This has significantly impacted their sense of community. Believers can also face discrimination in the public sector; they seldom secure jobs within local government services, and promotions are frequently denied.
Christians experience the most persecution in areas outside the main cities. Taking advantage of the pandemic, Islamist militants have been able to expand their areas of influence, putting more Christians under pressure.
"We don’t know what peace is any more. We only know persecution."
Elisabeth*, a believer in Niger
Despite falling two positions on the World Watch List, Niger remains a dangerous place for followers of Jesus. Niger’s government is still in turmoil after a military coup in 2023, leading to widespread insecurity and lawlessness. This means that Islamist insurgents are gaining power and influence, exacerbating violence and targeting Christians and other vulnerable communities.
Open Doors works through partners in Niger to strengthen persecuted Christians through economic empowerment programmes, leadership and discipleship training, persecution survival training and pastoral care for new believers.
Heavenly Father, we lift to You our brothers and sisters in Niger. Comfort and encourage believers who are fearful of attacks and who face persecution from their families and communities. Please heal, protect and provide for those who've been affected by the violence of Islamist extremists. We pray for an end to the Islamist insurgency and for the restoration of a stable and compassionate government. Fill the Nigerien church with peace, joy and love as they continue to share the gospel, Amen.
