A new memorial has been unveiled in Nigeria's Benue State to remember Christians who lost their lives in a deadly attack in the community of Yelwata.
The monument is believed to be the first dedicated memorial of its kind in the country for victims of religious persecution. It bears the names of 270 people who were killed during an attack that took place on Father's Day last year. Men, women and children were among those who died.
The memorial was unveiled by missionaries from Equipping the Persecuted, an organisation that supports Christians facing persecution around the world.
Speaking at the ceremony, the organisation's founder, Judd Saul, said the monument would help ensure that those who lost their lives are not forgotten. He said it stands as a lasting reminder of their faith and a call for an end to violence against Christians.
The unveiling ceremony brought together survivors, local residents and representatives from different faith communities. The event also included the distribution of humanitarian aid to families affected by the attack.
Thousands of people were reportedly forced from their homes following the violence, with estimates suggesting that around 3,000 residents were displaced.
Nigeria remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for Christians in several regions affected by insecurity and extremist violence. According to international watchdog Open Doors, the country continues to rank among the nations where Christians face the highest levels of persecution.
In recent years, attacks by Islamist extremist groups and heavily armed criminal gangs have claimed thousands of lives across parts of the country. While Christians are frequently targeted, some Muslims have also been killed or attacked after refusing to support militant activities.
The Nigerian government has pledged stronger action to address the ongoing security crisis. Last year, President Bola Tinubu declared a national emergency on security and promised increased efforts to restore peace in affected communities.
International concern over the violence has also grown, with the United States carrying out targeted operations against militant groups following reports of attacks on Christian communities.
