2/11/2025 Nigeria (International Christian Concern) — In the heart of Northern Nigeria, where the gospel often meets fierce — if not deadly — opposition, one man is faithfully sharing the love of Christ.

Ibrahim Nuhu Almasih, a former Hausa-speaking Muslim, has taken on the daunting task of leading Salam Great Commission International Outreach — a missionary organization devoted to sharing the gospel with Muslims in predominantly Hausa regions.

Almasih’s work is not for the faint of heart. He faces relentless obstacles, from persecution and death threats to the challenges that come with navigating a complex socio-religious landscape. Data from Family Search reveals a stark reality: the Hausa ethnic group, which is prevalent in northern Nigeria, is 95% Muslim and only 5% Christian. This creates a highly charged atmosphere where violence against Christians is common. Almasih’s experiences provide profound insights into his faith.

“The factor of predestination is there,” he explained. “God will pull out those predestined to be Christians in his own time.”

Almasih reflected on his own journey, noting how he found “light in Christianity” after a life of uncertainty in Islam, where the concept of salvation felt like a gamble. “In Christianity, I am heaven-bound, and I am proud of that,” he said.

However, his relatively new path has come at a steep price. Growing up in a largely Hausa-Muslim area, Almasih was met with severe backlash upon embracing Christianity.

“It wasn’t easy,” he recalled. “In the Northwest, converting to Christianity is taken extremely seriously, leading to all manner of persecution.” While he has had multiple attempts on his life, Almasih remains committed to spreading the gospel. He has changed his strategy, not his mission.

Due to the escalating dangers, Almasih and his ministry recently relocated to Jos in Plateau state — an area he describes as safer. Yet even there, threats loom large. “Many advise me not to stay in Jos, citing proximity to dangerous groups,” he shared.

His stories reveal the precarious existence of Hausa Christians. Almasih discusses the difficulties he’s faced, from struggles with bureaucratic discrimination to moments of near capture, where he was saved by compassionate Muslims who sheltered him.

“He can use anyone to fulfill his purpose,” Almasih said. “He used Muslims to rescue me, which is why I feel compelled to share the gospel with them.”

Despite the lurking dangers, Almasih’s resolve is unshakeable. He draws strength from his faith and the teachings of Jesus.
“To live a righteous life, you must be persecuted,” he said.

Almasih doesn’t view persecution as a barrier but rather as a “sweetener” in his life’s journey, reinforcing his commitment.
“My deep-rooted faith in God’s word will not be shaken by persecution,” he insisted.

A significant focus of Almasih’s ministry is dismantling misconceptions about Christianity among Muslims. He emphasizes the importance of using local dialects in worship, examines the difference between righteousness and holiness, and delves into the concept of the Trinity. He believes that the Holy Spirit’s guidance is crucial.

“The Holy Spirit is the greatest teacher,” Almasih said. “He instructs us in all things.”

Almasih has seen firsthand that many Muslims are open to the gospel. He shared a touching story about the son of the Sultan of Sokoto, who converted after being moved by the biblical principle of loving one’s enemies.

“Such love can only be found in Christ,” the young man reportedly declared.

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