NIGERIA – As followers of Jesus, we are constantly reminded of the certainty of the bodily return of Jesus in power and glory. Compelled by this encouraging Biblical truth, World Renew joins many faithful believers around the world in active transformation of lives and communities knowing that: “The abode of God is with men, and He will live among them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be death; there will no longer be sorrow and anguish, or crying, or pain; for the former order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:3-4, Amplified Bible).

Compelled by this encouraging Biblical truth, World Renew joins many faithful believers around the world in active transformation of lives and communities knowing that: “The abode of God is with men, and He will live among them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be death; there will no longer be sorrow and anguish, or crying, or pain; for the former order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:3-4, Amplified Bible).

Since 2002, Boko Haram has tormented, tortured, killed, destroyed, abducted, displaced, and traumatized people across Nigeria. Knowing that God is with His people in spite of the manifestation of evil around the world is a comforting truth and powerful source of healing. This knowledge also inspires hope that God will wipe away every tear from every faithful eye and sorrow and mourning will one day cease.

Housing Reconstruction for Internally Displaced Persons

Between December 2016 and April 2017, World Renew International Disaster Response helped reconstruct 182 homes in Plateau State. Violent attacks by Boko Haram have left families without homes for months and even years.  The grateful recipients call the high quality roofing materials given to them “manna from heaven,” because they do not know nor have seen those behind this very kind gesture.

Annatu Daget’s household was attacked in May of 2015.  After two years of displacement, she and her five children have a new shelter and express gratitude to God and World Renew for the opportunity. All the beneficiaries are hopeful and determined to make the most of what God has done to move them forward in life; they feel a boost in self-esteem and a resolve to forgive offenders.

Peacebuilding in Wukari and Anyiin War Zone Areas

World Renew International Disaster Response has also supported peacebuilding workshops in the villages of Wukari and Anyiin, where there has been much loss of life and property.  Resolved to serve as peace agents, 339 women and 164 men attended the workshops aimed at promoting peaceful co-existence, embracing diversity, discouraging revenge, and encouraging tolerance.

Traditional leaders, local government officials, religious leaders, and women’s group leaders attended the workshops with keen interest. The paramount leader, His Royal Highness the Aku-Uka sent twelve members from his palace to attend the workshop in Wukari. In all, 503 participants examined their role as believers in peace promotion, made individual and group commitments to be peace ambassadors in their communities, and prayed together. Some of the resolutions made at the peacebuilding workshops include:

  • It is best to embrace peaceful ways in resolving misunderstanding with others.
  • Peace agents are essential in rebuilding relationships and communities after conflicts.
  • When used properly and effectively, religion can play a positive role in conflict prevention and management as well as reconciliation.
  • Good communication is a powerful tool in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
  • The need for people of faith to serve as “bridges” is urgent and critically important.
  • Peacebuilding options are available on a daily basis and need to be seen and utilized.
  • God is in control of His creation and appreciates those who care and pursue peace in it.
  • The Church is expected to be the light and salt of the world and must maintain her relevance and place in peace promotion, support good governance, societal cleansing, and preservation of God’s creation while waiting for Christ’s return.

We greatly thank God for every World Renew supporter and pray for God’s blessings. You are all fondly remembered, appreciated, and celebrated. Your support is growing God’s kingdom, healing and building lives, and transforming and instilling true hope in communities in amazing ways. As Rick Warren says, the goal of every Christian should be to grow in character and in Christ-likeness. He says “No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.” Your giving enables World Renew to empower people to know and live out this powerful truth and become more and more like Christ.

Prayers

  • Thank God for the release this May of 82 more Chibok girls abducted from their boarding school in northern Nigeria 3 years ago. Pray for the release of those who are still held captive by terrorists.
  • Thank God for a very successful completion of the four-year “Protecting Adolescent Health and Rights” project carried out in 40 communities in Nigeria. Individual and community impacts are very encouraging and worth the investment.
  • Thank God for the impact World Renew initiatives are having on beneficiaries and their communities. Testimonies abound and smiles on faces are encouraging and soul uplifting.
  • Thank God for the church in Nigeria and pray for their wisdom and determination to continue to be salt and light.
  • Continue to pray for peace in Nigeria. Ask God to revive a spirit of tolerance and appreciation for diversity.
  • Pray for good and purposeful leadership at all levels of authority in Nigeria.

Blessings,

David Tyokighir

Country Consultant
World Renew Nigeria