Converts from Islam to Christianity face rejection and extreme hostility.
bottom“When the huts started burning, people came out and started running, and that is when the jihadists started shooting.”
—Hakuri*
*Name changed for security purposes
The situation for Christians in Niger has significantly declined since the 2023 coup that destabilised an already fragile nation. The instability has emboldened Islamic extremists, including those who have vowed allegiance to the Islamic State group and al-Qaeda. In some parts of Niger, these groups operate without much resistance. Strict Islamic law is imposed and enforced.
In other regions, church buildings are destroyed and believers killed. The country’s borders with Mali and Burkina Faso are porous and easy for extremists to cross and gain territory. Any Christians living in places dominated by these extremist groups will be targeted.
Believers—especially converts from Islam—must worship in secret, living under the constant threat of violence, abduction, and death. Additionally, the lack of rule of law in Niger means that radical Islamic ideologies can spread throughout society, making life more dangerous for Christians even where Islamic extremists aren’t active.
Christians in rural areas carry the most risk, but throughout the country, converts from Islam face the most significant persecution. Niger presents one of the harshest environments in the Sahel for religious minorities. It’s a region defined by jihadist rule, community hostility, and state neglect. During the 2026 World Watch List reporting period, Christians were abducted and Christian properties and churches destroyed. Thousands were displaced, all from extremist violence.
– That the military junta ruling Niger since 2023 will govern fairly and offer elections soon, and that stability will return.
– For God to protect believers at risk of attack from Islamic extremists. Pray for those displaced by the insecurity of the region.
– That converts to Christianity experience the Lord’s provision after being severely pressured by family and community.
Open Doors works through local churches in Niger to provide economic empowerment, persecution-preparedness training, cross-cultural ministry, and discipleship.
