#28 in Christian persecution, Niger

The situation for Christians worsened after the July 2023 coup. 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. The legal process for registering a church is arduous and protracted, and legal roadblocks have been used to prevent Christians from gathering. Believers can also face discrimination in the public sector; they seldom secure jobs within local government services, and promotions are frequently denied.

Meet Elisabeth​

“We are facing persecution day and night. Oh God, deliver us from this bad situation.”
Elisabeth (name changed), who has been persecuted by her mother because of her faith.

What does Open Doors do to help?​

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.

Please pray​

• Pray that God will bring order and prevent extremists from taking power or territory.
• Pray that God will protect Christians from Islamist attacks.
• Pray for converts from Islam – especially young people – who face rejection and oppression.