Damaturu, Yobe State

“I will make a covenant of peace with them and will rid the land of wild beasts, so that they can live securely in the wilderness and even sleep in the woods. I will turn them and the regions around my hill into a blessing. I will make showers come down in their season; they will be showers that bring blessing.” Ezekiel 34:25-26 NET

In the heart of Yobe State, where the Sahel embraces the savanna, lies Damaturu— a city that echoes with the resilience of its people and the anticipation of a new dawn. As the capital of Yobe, Damaturu is not just a geographical hub but also a cultural nucleus, serving as a bridge between tradition and development. Surrounded by the whispers of significant Christian populace in Potiskum to the south and Geidam to the north, Damaturu’s story unfolds in the arid embrace of the northeastern Nigerian landscape.

Until recently the city of Damaturu in the Yobe State was one of the most vibrant in North East Nigeria. Bombings and killings by Boko Haram have brought this former regional hub to almost a virtual standstill. Damaturu has grappled with the shadows of conflict and hardship. Economic disparity and the echoes of past struggles pose significant challenges. A Christian report says “The Christians in this community are a minority and they suffer a lot. The fact that hundreds of Christians have left town, and some are still leaving even as I am talking to you now, has made it difficult for us to account for the actual figure of our members that have been killed.” The scars of this exodus run deep.

However, beneath the surface, a spirit of resilience and hope burns brightly. The city’s youthful population, brimming with potential, yearns for a brighter future, seeking opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to their community. Despite the hardships, the remaining Christians continue to practice their faith with unwavering devotion and a deep desire for peace and reconciliation. Damaturu stands at a crossroads, wounded but not broken. The gospel light is invading hearts and systems. Beyond the droppings, we can have a shower.

Please Pray

• Pray for the healing of past wounds and the fostering of a future where all residents of Damaturu, regardless of faith, can live with dignity, safety, and the opportunity to pursue their dreams.
• Pray for creative and compassionate outreach strategies that resonate with the diverse communities of Damaturu, offering hope, support, and a tangible expression of God’s love to those who are suffering.
• Pray for enduring peace in Damaturu and the surrounding regions, that the city may be a beacon of stability and security for its residents.

Azare, Bauchi State

“The people which sat in darkness Saw great light; And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death Light is sprung up.” Matthew 4:16

Founded in 1803, Mallam Zaki who was put as the head of the town by Usman Danfodio in 1814. Azare, hums with a vibrant energy that reflects its deep-rooted traditions and promising future. Azare town is bordered to the east by Damban and Potiskum and to the south by Misau, in the west by Jama’are, and to the north by Itas/Gadau Local Government Area of Bauchi State. It is the headquarter of Katagum, a traditional emirate in Bauchi State.

A team of young professionals led by Pastor E, felt the necessity and urgency to use their skills for something bigger. A medical outreach program in Azare, a city renowned for its strong Islamic tradition, was recommended. Azare was a far cry from their bustling Lagos life, but the chance to serve a community in need resonated deeply. The following days were a blur of activity. The pharmacists, used their expertise to dispense medication and educate residents on hygiene practices. The doctors, treated patients suffering from a variety of ailments. While the medical team were on with the access ministry, the counselling team laboured alongside, with ceaseless prayers happening.

Beyond their medical duties, they found themselves captivated by Azare’s rich culture and their dire need for Jesus. Evenings were spent in the local church, who hosted them, and other times, visiting to learn about the peoples traditions and daily lives. Despite the language barrier, a sense of shared humanity transcended words.

Leaving Azare, they carried a profound sense of accomplishment and a burden for the breaking forth of God’s light among the people. They had served those in need and built relationships through acts of service and genuine care. They saw Azare not as a place shrouded in darkness, but as a city brimming with potential. They believe in the power of prayer (intercession) but also the importance of collaboration. The team returned to Lagos with a renewed perspective.

Their story is a call to action. Perhaps more future medical outreaches can be organized, partnering with local churches and healthcare providers to ensure sustainability. Educational opportunities and cultural exchange programs can also become an access ministry to extending the Gospel light to the over 90% Muslim population in Azare. By praying and planning for action, the impact can be far-reaching.

Please Pray:

• That a hunger for spiritual truth will rise among Muslims in Azare, drawing them to seek answers and discover the life-changing message of Christ.
• For courage and protection for those who choose to follow Christ in Azare. Pray that they be surrounded by a community of believers and experience the unshakable peace that comes from knowing Jesus.
• That God will guide the leaders of Azare with His He will grant them the discernment to make decisions that promote the well-being of all citizens and foster a sustainable future for the city.

22nd March, 2024

Zaria, Kaduna State

“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and return not thither, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and sprout, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish what I desire, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10-11

Zaria is a bustling metropolis in Nigeria, situated within four local government areas in Kaduna State. As the capital city of the Zazzau Emirate Council, it holds historical significance as one of the original seven Hausa city-states. According to the 2006 population census, Zaria was estimated to be home to 736,000 people.

The arrival of Islam in Zaria dates back to the late 1450s when it was introduced through neighbouring Habe cities, Kano and Katsina. This period saw a flourishing trade network between these cities, involving camel caravans carrying salt in exchange for slaves and grain. The city-state reached its zenith under Queen Amina, whose military campaigns expanded its influence over a tributary region encompassing the kingdoms of Kano and Katsina. However, after Queen Amina’s demise, Zaria came under the influence of the Jukun Kingdom and eventually became a tributary state itself. In the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, it became a tributary state of the Songhai Empire, and in 1805, it fell to the Fulani during the Fulani Jihad. Later, British forces led by Frederick Lugard captured the city.

Zaria is renowned for participating in the annual cultural durbar festivals, celebrated twice a year to mark the end of Ramadan and coincide with the Muslim festivals of Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr. The festival unfolds in phases, with the emir leading a tour around the city on the first day, known as Hawan Sallah, accompanied by district heads and royal guards. Subsequent days, Hawan Bariki Sallah and Hawan Daushe, mark the concluding tours, holding immense significance for Muslims in the city. The city’s foundations are deeply rooted in Islam, leading to a strong resistance to the Christian gospel. Despite this, there are Christians among both indigenous and settler populations in Zaria.

The first church in Northern Nigeria was built in Wusasa Zaria in the year 1929 and still holds its elegance and reminds us of the drive to finish the great commission in the North of Nigeria. Zaria also holds significance as the centre of the very first daring and radical attempt by fresh Nigerian graduate believers to engage others cross-culturally with the gospel. This attempt eventually catalyzed into the very first indigenous mission effort in Africa. Zaria has continuously held immense significance in the attempt to finish the task of evangelisation in Northern Nigeria.

Please pray

• Thank God for the significance Zaria holds in Nigerian missions and in the efforts towards finishing the task.
• Pray that the light of the gospel will shine through the city of Zaria, and the inhabitants will acknowledge and submit to the lordship of the God of all flesh.
• Declare the Lord’s blessing upon past labours and every ongoing missional effort to stabilise the city in righteousness and advance the kingdom of God.

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6

Port Harcourt, situated in southern Nigeria, is the capital of Rivers state. Nestled along the Bonny River, upstream from the Gulf of Guinea, it was established in 1912 in a region traditionally inhabited by the Ijaw and Ikwere people. The city evolved into a pivotal port, named in honour of Lewis Harcourt, the colonial secretary, following the inauguration of the rail link to the Enugu coalfields in 1916. Today, it stands as one of Nigeria’s foremost industrial centers.

Regarded as the Garden City, Port Harcourt ranks as the third most developed metropolis in Nigeria, trailing behind Lagos and Abuja. Often hailed as Nigeria’s oil capital, it holds a prominent status as the primary oil hub in Africa. A predominantly Christian city with a small presence of African Traditional Worshippers and a minority of Muslims. Many of the Muslim inhabitants are migrants seeking improved livelihoods, and this is daily increasing. Engaged in various occupations such as cobbling, gatekeeping, and small-scale retail, they endeavour to establish significance in their community. PH has fondly called witnessed one of the largest migrations from Northern Nigeria, and the gains of what God is doing should be maximised.

Please pray 

• Thank God for bringing Muslims from the North into this city, and also for the growth and spread of the gospel therein.
• That believers and the body of Christ will maximize the opportunity to reach their migrant neighbours.
• Pray that God will raise labourers for the harvest of seekers in this city as well as for the discipleship of increasing numbers of converts.

Kontagora, Niger State

“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” John 6:37-38 NKJV

Kontagora stands as a city steeped in historical significance, cultural richness, and flourishing agricultural pursuits. Founded in 1864 by Umaru Nagwamatse, who successfully conquered extensive lands from non-Muslim Kambaris, Kontagora emerged as the capital of the kingdom. Umaru Nagwamatse became the inaugural emir, shaping the city’s early political landscape.

This vibrant city is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, including the Gwari, Nupe, Hausa, and Fulani. The cultural diversity woven by these communities’ manifests in a number of traditions, languages, and customs, making Kontagora a blend of cultural diversity.

Agriculture is the lifeblood of Kontagora, with a bounty of crops cultivated, including sorghum, millet, cowpeas, tobacco, beans, shea butter, gum arabic, and kola nuts. The cultivation of sorghum beer further highlights the agricultural prowess of the community.

The predominant language spoken in Kontagora is Hausa, facilitating communication across the diverse ethnic groups. In matters of faith, the Bassa-Kontagora predominantly practice Folk Islam, a syncretistic belief system that combines traditional Islamic elements with superstitious practices. This practice involves warding off spirits through incantations, employing magic amulets, and reciting Qur’anic verses for miraculous healings.

Please pray:

• Thank the Lord for the opportunity this city presents to reach multiple people groups.
• Ask the LORD to raise a banner for Himself among every tribe present in this city.
• For a spiritual hunger that will draw the people to the only one who can save them from sin and death.

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State

At that time tribute will be brought to the Lord of hosts from a people tall and smooth, from a people feared near and far, a nation mighty and conquering, whose land the rivers divide, to Mount Zion, the place of the name of the Lord of hosts (Isaiah 18:7)

At the heart of the Niger Delta is Yenagoa, the capital city of Bayelsa State. The Niger flows south and breaks into the Forcados and Nun rivers at the northernmost part of Bayelsa, an incredible masterpiece of nature. Aminu was waiting with his bike at the popular Ekeki junction. “Going”, that was the popular way of requesting the services of a commercial motorcycle. “Oga where you dey go?” (translated as Sir, where are you going?) said Aminu in Nigerian pidgin English. The journey to Azikoro, a satellite settlement to Yenagoa was fun but scary as Aminu raced in-between buses and articulated vehicles. “How long have you been here?” I questioned. “My grandfather came to Nembe when my father was still a young boy. They traded mostly in yam. I have lived here for thirty-three years while I have only been to my ancestral home twice in my entire life. The Ijaw people are friendly. We live together in peace. As you can see, those of us from the north are mostly the commercial bikers. They allow us practice our faith without any intimidation”. Aminu said.

Islam is growing in the Niger Delta not necessarily by Muslim Dawah or any organised group rather through migration and trading. In exploration of economic opportunities, Muslim traders and service renders from the north move down south where they carry out diverse trading as well as render services in cobbling, butchering, transport, water vendoring etc. From Swali market to Igbogene down to Mbiama, the northern Muslims have found abodes in the creek city. May they likewise find the streams of salvation.

Please Pray

• That the Church in Yenagoa and the Niger Delta as a whole will prioritise the need to reach out to the northern populace in the region with Christ’s love and the testimony of His saving power.
• For supernatural encounters for the Muslim populace in the city as well as in the Niger Delta region.
• Pray for gospel efforts, especially through radio ministry targeted at northern Muslims domiciled in the city, to receive God’s blessings

Lagos, Lagos State

“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” Proverbs 24:3-4 NIV

Lagos is a cosmopolitan and mega-city at the very heart of commerce, entertainment, technology, education, politics, tourism, art, and fashion with a significant influence in Africa. Lagos has the most populated and vibrant population in Nigeria with an estimated population of about 21 million persons in 2015. Its territorial extent and political jurisdiction cover an area of 358.862 hectares or 3,577sq.km which represents 0.4% of Nigeria’s territorial land mass; about 40% of the region is covered by water bodies and wetland. Lagos is the most populous urban area in Africa, and a former capital city of the nation. The city’s mainly Yoruba population has grown more heterogeneous with the migration of other Nigerians, West Africans and peoples from across the world to the city in search of economic opportunities and a better standard of living. An instance is the thriving and growing Lebanese and Arab communities in the city.

Commonly referred to as “Eko”, Lagos sees an influx of about 2000 persons into the city daily. Today, people from different religions and all walks of life make a home for themselves out of the city. This city is particularly strategic for missional engagement because in Lagos, you have a very high probability of finding people from all the 542 people groups and a significant population of known unreached people groups. According to extant political records, “Lagos is to the people of Nigeria what the head is to the body of an individual“. A fervent and earnest prayer for the city is sure to bring about a great revival among the various groups and affinities in the city which is in turn capable of being a catalyst for national revival.

Please pray

• Thank God for the strategic nature of the city and the opportunity it presents believers to share the gospel openly and boldly.
• Pray that the believers will rise up to their responsibility of preaching Christ with their lives and words.
• Pray for a great revival to burst from within the city to other cities in Nigeria and beyond.

Enugu, Enugu State

“In whose hand are the depths of the earth, The peaks of the mountains are His also. The sea is His, for it was He who made it, And His hands formed the dry land.” Ps 95:4-5 NASU

Enugu, the capital city of Enugu State is situated inland in the southeastern region and is affectionately known as the “Coal City.” This city holds historical significance in Nigeria’s development, playing a pivotal role in the once-thriving coal mining industry.

Enugu is the dwelling place of the Igbo-speaking people, celebrated for their industrious spirit, entrepreneurial endeavours, resourcefulness, extensive travels, and warm hospitality. The city stands as a testament to the cultural richness of the Igbo community.

Beyond its historical contributions, Enugu serves as a hub for Nigeria’s renowned film industry, Nollywood. The city’s vibrant cultural scene extends to sports, arts, and a harmonious blend of traditional and modern attractions. With friendly locals and a lively nightlife, Enugu has evolved into a notable tourist destination in Nigeria.

Commerce and tourism increased the influx of Muslims into this iconic city. Migrants from the North found harbour in Enugu, being involved in various jobs. The city is predominantly a home to Christians. While there are few adherents of traditional religion, and people from Northern Nigeria practicing Islam. Notably, some indigenous residents have undergone religious conversions, embracing Islam due to various personal reasons.

Please Pray:

• Thank God for the neutrality this city provides in gospel engagement to those without the Gospel.
• Pray that believers will maximize the opportunity God has given them to reach their migrant neighbours.
• Pray for supernatural encounters and divine revelation of the person of Jesus to the increasing migrant population in Enugu.

Iwo, Osun State

“For if you embrace the truth, it will release true freedom into your lives.” John 8:32, TPT

“I am certain that you would get the stuff if you are able to make it in good time to Odo-ori market. It is not much of a distance from Osogbo”, said the kind man who met us while asking for the direction to Iwo. The journey began just after the driver murmured some words that I guessed to be prayers and then he rubbed his palms on his face. The fourteen-seater bus had a bold inscription on the rear glass: “Ayekooto” (meaning the world hates the truth).

One would probably think that the first Sharia court would have been situated in any of the core northern states of Nigeria. In actual fact, Iwo in present day Osun State, Nigeria, holds the record. Iwo also had the first mosque in Yorubaland serving the dual purpose of worship as well as Islamic education. “When we need further guidance on the teachings of the Prophet as contained in the Holy Book, we come down to Iwo, a town of Islamic heritage, blessed with revered scholars of the Muslim faith”, Alfa Abbas commented.

Call it the Medina of Islam in Southwest Nigeria and you would not be wrong; Iwo boasts of several Islamic landmarks. The people are naturally gifted in local trading and commerce. Meet two butchers from Southwest Nigeria, one of them is most predictably from Iwo. They excitedly represent the Muslim faith with either the trademark crescent and star designed taqiyah or with a long tasbih. Acknowledgedly, there has been significant gospel commitment and labours in the town. From the pioneering effort of Baptist missionaries to the Methodist and to current commitments to extending the blessings of redemption to the town dwellers. Today, as we pray for the town and its people, may the Lord reach out to many more bringing them unto Himself.

Please Pray

• Pray for access to the Truth for the people of Iwo.
• Ask the Lord to bring full conviction to many who are at the verge of making decision to accept Christ into their lives.
• Proclaim the freedom Jesus offers to everyone who is still living in bondage and in deception in the town.

Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

Established in 1807 by Muhammadu Namoda, a military genius and prince of the Alibawa ruling family of Zurmi in the 18th century, Kaura Namoda has a rich historical background and has become a home to different ethnicities. Most of the town’s growth, however, is due to the arrival of the railway from Zaria in 1929. It is served by a station at the terminus of a branch line of the western line of the national railway network, a line proposed to be rehabilitated and extended to Niamey in Niger.

At the heart of Kaura Namoda is the Kaura Namoda Emirate, a testament to its cultural and historical significance. Notable landmarks in the area include the Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda. The city serves as a major collection point for peanuts and cotton, contributing to its economic importance. Additionally, millet, sorghum, cowpeas, rice, sugarcane, and tobacco are significant sources of income for the community.

Ethnically, Kaura Namoda is predominantly inhabited by the Hausa and Fulani groups, with the Hausa and Fulfulde languages commonly spoken in the region. The city embraces Islam as the widely practiced religion, although there is a minority Christian population. The city’s unique blend of tradition, commerce, and diverse communities presents a fascinating opportunity for fostering connection and advancing the gospel.

Please pray:

• Pray for mutual respect and understanding between the majority Muslim and minority Christian population, and that Christian students and business men in Kaura will be true ambassadors of the Kingdom.
• Pray for open doors of ministry for individuals and ministry to begin deliberate engagement efforts in this city.
• Lift up the economic activities in Kaura Namoda, praying for sustained growth, fair trade practices, and opportunities for all members of the community.