Nigeria (MNN) — Boko Haram has already left millions of Nigerians displaced and homeless. But now, these same people have to face the harsh Harmattan winds.
The seasonal winds, blowing from late-December to mid-March, bring potential death with each breath. The winds are known for creating nearly freezing temperatures and blotting the sun out for days with dust from the Sahara.
The Sahara. (Photo Courtesy Tony Netone Via Flickr)
A doctor from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital has warned of the increased chances for asthma, pneumonia, and cough–potentially leading to death for those left unprotected from the elements. Children and the elderly are especially at risk.
Yet, while Nigerians face frightening circumstances, their government is doing nothing. Instead, the spokesman for Nigeria’s state’s emergency management agency has said the government is waiting until it has complete data to distributed aid materials.
However, Open Doors USA is in the area, working to provide relief help and trauma counseling.
Open Doors is also working with Christian communities in Nigeria to rebuild as well as provide relief. Furthermore, Open Doors is providing job skill training and more to help Christians thrive as much as possible in Nigeria, so the Gospel will continue to spread.
You can help Open Doors USA and the Nigerian people by praying for the following:
- Protection from the fierce winds
- God’s providence of food, blankets, and shelter
- For God to use this time of hardship for His good
- The work of the Gospel
To donate to the work of Open Doors in Nigeria, click here!
