Persecuted Christians in Nigeria Observe Global Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church
On Sunday, during the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, persecuted Christians in Nigeria gathered to lift up prayers for their country and for fellow believers around the world facing persecution.
Pastor Gah Yohanna Sunday, a leader with the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and a prominent figure from the Irigwe community in Bassa, Plateau state, shared his inspiring story of faith and perseverance.
He entered ministry in 2005 after becoming a Christian. Although he initially pursued a career in accounting, Pastor Sunday felt God calling him to a different path.
“I prayed for God to reveal my purpose and role in His kingdom,” he said. “That’s when I realized my calling as a pastor.” Since then, he has devoted himself to mentoring, evangelizing, and offering spiritual guidance in his community — all while facing persecution.
The Irigwe Christians have recently been under severe attacks. “They killed four people recently, grazed cattle on our farms, and burned homes — including mine,” Pastor Sunday shared.
These violent attacks have left many families struggling with poverty, hunger, trauma, and displacement. Despite these challenges, Pastor Sunday remains hopeful, drawing strength from Scripture. He frequently refers to Romans 8:27-39, Philippians 4:12-13, and Ephesians 6:10-18 to remind his congregation that their suffering aligns with the persecution mentioned in the Bible.
“God is good, even when I don’t fully understand,” he expressed.
Pastor Sunday believes the attacks are systematic and specifically targeted at Christians. With churches destroyed and resources limited, the community often depends on external aid. Organizations like the Stefanos Foundation, Red Cross, and Norwegian Refugee Council provide essential food, trauma care, and financial support, but the need remains overwhelming.
In observance of the International Day of Prayer, the Stefanos Foundation held a prayer session in Jos, where 2 Chronicles 7:14 held particular significance: “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray … I will hear from heaven …”
Pastor Sunday also prayed with 23 widows who lost their husbands to Islamic Fulani extremists, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith. He called on the global community to support persecuted Christians in Nigeria and urged believers worldwide to pray and advocate for them.
Despite the ongoing persecution, Pastor Sunday remains unwavering in his mission. “This attack will end — whether in this life or the next,” he said. “I will continue to proclaim the gospel, no matter the circumstances.”