The Christian persecution in Nigeria isn’t getting any better
By Easton Martin | January 20, 2026
The persecution of the Church in Nigeria has escalated yet again, marking a tragic start to 2026. On Sunday, January 18, armed bandits stormed three separate churches in the Kurmin Wali community of Kaduna State during morning worship services.
Reports from Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) and local witnesses indicate that approximately 167 believers were abducted in this coordinated attack.
The assailants targeted the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and two Cherubim and Seraphim congregations. While some women and children were reportedly released later, over 160 Christians remain in captivity.
This mass abduction follows a bloody beginning to the year, with over 50 people killed in attacks across the region in early January alone. Disturbingly, initial responses from state authorities attempted to deny the scale of the incident, further isolating these vulnerable communities, and expanding the government’s continuing denial of persecution.
The Nigerian church is facing a systematic attempt to silence their witness through fear and displacement. Our concern must move us to advocate for their protection and to pray. We must pray not just for their release, but for their endurance and hope in the face of profound darkness.
