Put Politics Aside—Pray, Give, and Stand Up for Nigeria

Set aside the partisan debates in Washington and focus on the urgent reality: Now is the moment to offer prayers, support, and tangible action for Nigeria's embattled Christian communities. As churches are burned and families are devastated, the crisis intensifies—yet, as Americans turn their attention to holiday traditions, the suffering in Nigeria receives barely a mention in mainstream headlines. Across the Atlantic, followers of Christ are targeted for their unwavering faith, and much of the world remains silent.

I first encountered Pastor Bill“ "PB” Devlin—a Vietnam veteran and respected pastor—at the 2000 Republican National Convention in Philadelphia. Politics aside, what distinguishes Pastor Devlin is his unwavering resolve. With Nigeria now at the center of international concern due to escalating violence and insecurity, Pastor Devlin has distinguished himself by working fearlessly on the front lines, demonstrating that action speaks louder than social media campaigns. While his humanitarian work spans eight nations, it is in Nigeria’s conflict zones where his faith is most deeply tested and expressed.

Pastor Devlin—a man with roots in both Philadelphia and New York City—does not simply offer words from behind a pulpit. He places himself directly in harm's way, standing with communities shattered by the terror of Boko Haram and Fulani militants. Through his leadership with REDEEM! and Widows & Orphans.info, he offers hope and practical support to the persecuted, especially women and children, often at great personal risk.

Having followed Pastor Devlin’s work for years, I can attest to his authenticity. He balances urgent crisis calls from Nigeria with the responsibilities of family life—recently, when Hurricane Melissa stranded him in Jamaica, he spent three weeks providing relief to the displaced, exemplifying his commitment to service.

Pastor Devlin’s approach is marked by genuine presence. He resides in refugee camps, shares meals with those who have lost everything, and stands in solidarity amidst conflict, motivated by faith and a long-standing dedication to Nigeria’s afflicted communities—well before the world began to take notice.

As violence escalates and families flee for their lives, Pastor Devlin and his team respond immediately—delivering medical supplies to overburdened hospitals, rebuilding destroyed churches and homes, and establishing schools to ensure that children orphaned by violence do not lose hope for their futures. The Widows & Orphans initiative is more than a name—it is a vital source of support for Nigeria’s most vulnerable.

Pastor Devlin also recognizes the profound psychological impact of the crisis. Drawing on his expertise in trauma care, he leads healing sessions and faith-based gatherings that serve as a lifeline for survivors, offering comfort and affirmation to those who have suffered in silence.His advocacy is not without personal risk. Pastor Devlin has publicly championed the cause of threatened Christians such as Sunday Jackson and Leah Sharibou, even expressing a willingness to exchange his own freedom for theirs—a testament to his commitment to religious liberty and human rights.

Beyond direct relief, Pastor Devlin works to elevate Nigeria’s plight in the corridors of power, urging U.S. officials to formally recognize the religious persecution occurring there. By collaborating with NGOs, faith leaders, and policymakers, he ensures that Nigeria’s crisis remains a matter of international concern and action.

Ultimately,  his ministries efforts are defined by genuine compassion. He offers comfort to grieving families and continues his support long after media attention fades. His work underscores a critical truth: The crisis in Nigeria is not merely a distant headline—it is a humanitarian emergency that demands the attention and involvement of the faith community and all who value human dignity.

For Pastor Devlin, faith is not a slogan but the driving force behind every act of service and advocacy. With steadfast prayer and practical action, he demonstrates that change in Nigeria is possible—provided enough people choose to engage.

As we reflect this holiday season, let us look beyond charitable gestures and support organizations effecting real change on the ground. The future of Nigeria’s persecuted communities depends on our willingness to stand with them. To learn how you can help, visit widowsandorphans.info and discover what meaningful impact looks like.

To learn more about Pastor  Bill and his missions  please visit  widowsandorphans.info