Nigeria Factbook

Nigeria has struggled with political instability, corruption, and poverty. However, the Lord has visited this land in a special way. Millions now profess faith in Christ and their numbers continue to grow.

Nigeria is located in western Africa. It is located on the Atlantic ocean and shares borders with Cameroon, Niger, and Benin. The land is mostly tropical rainforest rich in natural resources. The northern section bordering Niger is savanna grassland.

Nigeria's population numbers nearly 127 million people making it the largest in Africa in terms of people and population density. It is very diverse with almost 500 distinct people groups speaking nearly that many different languages. The northern portion of the nation is predominantly Muslim. The southern portion is mostly Christian. Ethnic differences have been an ongoing source of unrest.

Nigeria's resources, especially oil, have produced abundant income. Unfortunately, government mismanagement and rampant corruption have squandered most of the wealth. Unemployment is high, and most people live in poverty.

After gaining independence from Great Britain in 1960, Nigeria went through many different governments, civil wars and coups. The northern Muslims have dominated politics during most of the post independence era. In 1999, a Christian was elected president, and he remains in power today. He has been trying to clean up corruption in the government, but the job is enormous. He has many political enemies including the Muslim leadership and those who benefited from the corruption. Pray that he may have great wisdom and protection from his enemies.

There is freedom of religion. However, Christians are routinely persecuted in the northern territories. All counts of religious groups are in dispute because of fighting among the various groups. Muslims claim a majority but probably are less than 50%. Christians account for most of the remainder, but traditional African religions are still practiced by many.

The Lord has richly blessed Nigeria. The Sudan Inland Mission began work here over 100 years ago, and it was a difficult field. The number of evangelical believers began to grow rapidly 50 years ago, and today evangelicals account for nearly 25% of the population. Their numbers are approaching 30 million.

There are still many challenges to the gospel. Ethnic and religious hatreds are very strong. Muslims are pushing for Islamic law. The church has grown so rapidly that many local congregations are without a trained pastor. Serious Biblical error has crept into a number of churches.

The missions vision among Nigeria has grown. Pray for these missionaries and their support. Aid ministries are very important. Many need food, and AIDS is rampant. Pray for those involved in these ministries and for opportunities to share the gospel.

Copyright 2006 by Brad Garrison

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