Abuja: Christian communities in Nigeria are facing alarming levels of persecution, with reports indicating that approximately 1,200 churches are destroyed and hundreds of Christians are killed every year. The violence, largely carried out by Islamist militants including Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani herders, has left communities living in fear and struggling to maintain their places of worship.
The eastern regions of Nigeria, particularly states like Enugu, have been severely affected. Recent incidents include the killing of Father Mathew Eya, who was ambushed and executed while returning to his parish. Between January and September 2025 alone, at least 15 Catholic priests were kidnapped, highlighting the specific targeting of religious leaders.
One of the deadliest attacks occurred in