Asaba, Delta State

“Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” John 1:3

Asaba, the bustling capital of Delta State, pulsates with a vibrant energy that reflects its rich history and promising future. Located on the banks of the majestic Niger River, this city of over half a million people is a captivating blend of faith, commerce, and cultural heritage.

The city served as a traditional market center for agricultural produce and a crucial stop on trade routes. Early European explorers, like the Lander brothers, encountered Asaba in the 19th century, leaving their mark on the city’s history with Asaba becoming a trading post and later a key administrative center.  Asaba’s embrace of Christianity goes back to the arrival of missionaries, who established schools and healthcare institutions, leaving a lasting impact on the social fabric. Today, Christianity and Islam coexist, with mosques and churches standing side-by-side as testaments to openness and acceptance.

“Ten years ago, I arrived this city, a nervous young man seeking opportunity,” said Malik, as he shared his story. A stranger in a predominantly Christian city, the call to prayer from the mosque became his anchor. He found a job as a security man, got married, and now a proud father of four. Asaba, once a distant dream, blossomed into his reality. Their tiny apartment echoed with laughter as their family grow – two of his brothers had joined him from Jigawa. Each child is a verse in their Asaba story. Now, standing tall close to Niger Bridge, Malik’s heart swelled. He was no longer just a Muslim migrant. He is a notable figure in the city, a husband, father, and a part of the vibrant life in this city, the place where his roots had grown strong.

Please Pray:

• That God will open the hearts and minds of the Muslims in Asaba to the message of His Son, Jesus Christ.
• That they will encounter the Gospel in its truth and simplicity, recognizing Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.
• For the seeds of faith that are being planted in Asaba. Pray that God will grant them fertile ground to take root, grow, and bear fruit.