PRAY FOR NIGER
– For stability following last year’s military coup.
– For the protection of Christians facing violence from Islamic extremist groups.
– That Christians who have converted from Islam will find fellowship.
WORLD WATCH LIST
Niger
#27Converts from Islam to Christianity face rejection and extreme hostility.
bottom"There are so many fears in the hearts of believers right now."
– Pastor Hassan
Country
Profile
- Region
- Africa
- Sources of persecution
- Islamic Oppression
- Population
- 27,066,000
- Christian population
- 66,600
- Religions
- Islam
- Leader
- President Mohamed Bazoum (deposed)
- Score
- 70
What’s Life Like For Christians?
Last year’s military coup has added to the growing hostility felt by many Christians across Niger.
In July 2023, Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, head of the presidential guard’s unit, declared himself Niger’s new leader, prompting concerns that this will open the country up to further attacks from Islamic extremists. The growing influence of Islamic extremism in Niger has led to a rise in attacks on Christian properties including church buildings, schools and healthcare centres.
The political instability in Niger only increases the vulnerability of Christians, especially converts from Islam, who face additional pressures from their own families to renounce their faith.
Pressure also comes from the authorities, and this could likely increase. The legal process for registering a church is arduous and protracted, and legal roadblocks are used to prevent Christians from gathering, significantly impacting their sense of community. Believers can also face discrimination in the public sector workplace; they seldom secure jobs within local government services, and promotions are frequently denied.
Who Is Most Vulnerable To Persecution?
Christians living outside of major cities are increasingly targeted by Islamic extremist groups. The poverty rate in these areas is high and young Christian children are often enticed away from their families by extremist groups in exchange for money.
Niger is a largely male-dominated society, leaving women most vulnerable to violence. Those who bravely choose to leave Islam for Christianity can face forced marriage, sexual assault, divorce, loss of custody of their children, and disinheritance.
What Does Open Doors Do To Help?
Open Doors works through partners in Niger to strengthen persecuted Christians through economic empowerment programs, leadership and discipleship training, persecution survival training, and pastoral care for new believers.
