Christians in Nigeria, particularly in the Muslim-majority north, continue to live under immense pressure and to be terrorized with devastating impunity by Islamic militants and armed “bandits.” More believers are killed for their faith in Nigeria each year, than everywhere else in the world combined. The attacks are often brutal in nature and can involve destruction of properties, abductions for ransom, sexual violence and death. Believers are stripped of their livelihoods and driven from their homes, leaving a trail of grief and trauma. 

Violence by Islamic extremist groups such as Fulani militants, Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State in West African Province) increased during the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, putting Nigeria at the epicenter of targeted violence against the church. The government’s failure to protect Christians and punish perpetrators has only strengthened the militants’ influence.

The rise of Islamic militancy occurs against the backdrop of climate change, environmental degradation and population growth, pushing Fulani herdsmen—whose origins are pastoral and Islamic—and their cattle southwards. This is creating tensions with other farmers, including Christians. Among the Fulani are militants who have turned disputes into something far more sinister, with attacks being driven by ethnic and religious ties.

Christians living in the Shariah (Islamic law) states of northern Nigeria can also face discrimination and oppression as second-class citizens. Converts from Islam often experience rejection from their own families and pressure to renounce their new faith.