Nigeria (MNN) — Each week, it seems there's a new report of Nigerian Christians slaughtered by the Boko Haram. But what happens to those who survive? Some women lose more than just a husband: they lose their livelihood.
Through their Women's Ministry, Voice of the Martyrs Canada supports Nigerian women who lost husbands and children in Boko Haram attacks. During a visit to the nation ranked #13 on the Open Doors USA World Watch List, VOMC teams spoke with three widows: Monica Dra, Fatu Apollos, and Ester Simon.
Each lost a husband to Boko Haram persecution. Each found strength to overcome.
"If I am able to endure like him, I will see him again and that will bring me comfort," said Apollos.
Violence erupted in northern regions of Nigeria last April following the election of a Christian president. Angry Muslim youth took to the streets, attacking believers and burning houses and churches. After learning Apollos' husband was a pastor, they killed him in front of her eyes.
Dra and Simon also lost their husbands in anti-Christian attacks. VOMC recorded each woman's story, and you can find details by clicking here.
VOMC's Women's Ministry provided each of the widows a new way to support their families. Dra received a sewing machine and grinding machine that she uses to support herself and her only surviving son. Simon received help from the Stevens House, a Nigerian safe house for children orphaned by persecution.
Not only do they provide an education for Simon's children, but they gave her the funds to start her own general store. With the money she earned from her store, Simon was able to purchase some land and construct a 3-room building.
You can support widows who lost everything to the Boko Haram. Click here to send support to VOMC, and designate "Women's Ministry" in the drop-down list.
