Nigeria

Capital: Abuja

Official Language: English

Area: 923,769 km2

Population: 213 million

HDI Rank: 161 of 189

Major Religion:

Islam: 102 million (48%)

Other Religions:

Catholic: 21 million (10%)

Protestant: 68 million (32%)

Other: 21 million (10%)

General Information:

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. Portuguese reached the Nigerian coast in 1472. By the 1600s British slave ships had arrived. The slave traders captured millions of Nigerians and sent them to the Americas. By about 1900 Great Britain had taken control of most of the region. Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960. After independence, politics were marked by coups and mostly military rule. Violence and protests continue. Nigeria is the largest producer of oil in Africa. Most popular sport is soccer.

Religious Background:

Nigeria's constitution ensures freedom of religion. Religious affiliation in Nigeria is strongly related to ethnicity. The northern states, are predominantly Muslim while the southern states are largely Christian. There is a high degree of tension and violence between Christians and Muslims in the country. Many people incorporate elements of traditional beliefs in their practice of Christianity or Islam, including the traditional practice of polygamy. About 10% practice traditional African religions or no religion at all.

Catholic background:

Catholicism was introduced by Portuguese traders in the 15th century. Capuchins arrived in the 17th century, but systematic evangelization did not begin until 1840. The hierarchy was established in 1950. Nigeria has one of the world’s largest Catholic seminaries. The Catholic church became deeply involved in the civil war. Certain traditions of the indigenous religion were accepted within Catholicism. The Church is composed of 9 archdioceses, 48 dioceses and 2041 parishes. Patron saints: Patrick, Our Lady Queen of Nigeria.

Prayer Points

1. Nigerians to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior

Pray that everyone will get an opportunity to hear the gospel and come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

2. Catholics to know Christ

Pray for the salvation of 21 million Catholics in Nigeria.
Catholicism is influenced by indigenous traditional beliefs and practices. Pray that they would have a clear understanding of the gospel and trust Christ as their Lord.
Pray that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit will continue in a greater measure preparing the hearts and minds of Catholics to trust Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Nominalism and syncretism are widespread among Catholics. Pray that the veil on their eyes will be removed with God’s power, and that they will come to know Christ in large numbers.
Pray for all the Catholics attending the 2041 parishes to come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Pray for the cardinals, archbishops, bishops, 4,437 priests, 1,938 brothers and 3,716 sisters.
Pray that any seeds of the gospel planted among Catholics would take root and bring much fruit. Ask God for spiritual movements to take place in Nigeria.

3. Evangelicals to grow and multiply

The Evangelical churches in Nigeria continue to experience massive growth. But the teaching is often mixed with syncretism and discipleship is lacking. Pray that there will be an emphasis on biblical values and integrity, and for proper discipleship. Pray for the gospel to be presented in culturally relevant ways, but without compromise.

4. Social evils and issues in the country

There is widespread corruption in both government and the church. Deep ethnic and religious divisions threaten the nation as a whole. Boko Haram, an Islamic militant sect continues to remain a threat. Pray for peace and stability in the country.

5. Other Religions

Followers of Hinduism, Judaism and Baha'i faith have small communities. There are sects like - The Grail Movement and The Reformed Ogboni Fraternity. Atheism is growing. Ask the Lord to reveal Himself to them in ways that they can understand.