A troubling situation is unfolding in Nigeria, where a severe crisis is affecting the Christian community. For over a decade, violence has plagued this region, but recently, more attention is being drawn to the systematic targeting of Christians, particularly in the northern areas of the country.
These northern regions are predominantly Muslim, with about 90% of the population practicing Islam. Groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-WA (ISWAP) have gained significant control, contributing to a dangerous environment for Christians. Currently, Nigeria is considered one of the most perilous places for Christians globally. Reports indicate that more Christians are killed here each year than anywhere else. In fact, around 70% of all Christians killed for their faith worldwide are from Nigeria. Just in the first 220 days of 2025, over 7,000 Christians were reportedly murdered in northern Nigeria.
In this part of the world, Christians face severe discrimination. Many are denied basic necessities like food, clean water, and medical care simply because of their faith. A recent attack on the village of Yelwata highlights this crisis, where 250 Christians were killed in one night. Despite the scale of the violence, the media largely overlooked this massacre, and no one has been held accountable for the deaths.
As awareness grows, some media outlets and officials in Nigeria have begun to refute claims of a Christian genocide. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister described these assertions as a "gross misrepresentation," suggesting that they harm the country’s global image and deter foreign investment. This response raises questions about the government’s priorities, as it seems more focused on public perception than addressing the violence.
Senator Ted Cruz recently introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2025 to address these issues. However, the Nigerian government insists that the violence is not targeted solely at Christians, arguing that Muslims are also victims. While it is true that Muslims are killed, the numbers show a stark contrast, with far more Christians losing their lives.
The narrative surrounding this crisis often includes denial and misinformation. Throughout history, similar patterns have emerged during other genocides, where the truth was obscured, and the suffering of victims was dismissed. Now, as American fact-finders investigate the situation, their findings confirm the ongoing persecution against Christians in Nigeria, calling it a "calculated and long-running genocide."
The situation is dire, and the world must not turn a blind eye to the suffering of Christians in Nigeria. As the crisis continues, it is crucial for people to be informed and to take action before it is too late. The evidence of persecution is clear, and the voices of those affected must be heard.
