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20th December 2009 |
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Pray for Nigeria
50% of the people are Christian and 40% Muslim, but this is approximate. Many problems between the 2 religions. Africa’s most populous nation with nearly 150 million people. Independent from Britain as a federation in 1960. Rich in agricultural land and mineral resources and large oil reserves. The enormous oil wealth was squandered on prestige projects and embezzled by a series of corrupt rulers. The military dictator Abacha misappropriated an estimated $7 billion during his misrule. It is reckoned that the stolen wealth is about equal to the national debt of $30 billion. Agriculture, transportation, storage systems and the basic economy were neglected. Over 34% of the population live below the poverty line and unemployment is 28%.
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Pray for the right balance between tact and firmness and between revolution and evolution in economic affairs, vested interests and tribalism. A profusion of competing denominations and sects has emerged. There are too many one-man ministries with little accountability to the Body of Christ. Pray that the pride, carnality and tribalism underlying this may be replaced with humility, simplicity of lifestyle and holiness. Christian leaders are under great stress in today’s Nigeria — economic and political pressure, but also for those in the north, real dangers from Muslim extremists. Many Muslims have become more open to the gospel despite Nigeria’s religious tensions. Thousands have come to Christ, but many face death threats, discrimination and ostracism. Pray for wise and effective methods of witness. Powerful Christian literature for Muslims is now being published. | |