Jul 24, 2026

American Missionary Urges Netanyahu: Tackle Nigeria’s Christian Killings and Tinubu-Era Insecurity

By Afolai Olaiya Idowu in news

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Abuja, Nigeria – July 24, 2026 — An American missionary and humanitarian has thrust Nigeria’s persistent security challenges into the international spotlight once again, directly appealing to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the latter’s strong stance against terrorism.

Alex Barbir, known for his on-the-ground humanitarian work rebuilding homes for displaced Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, responded to Netanyahu’s recent declaration by simply writing: “Please deal with Nigeria.”

The comment came beneath the Israeli leader’s vow to pursue terrorists, their dispatchers, and all supporters following attacks in Israel.

Netanyahu had outlined aggressive new security measures, including home demolitions of suspects, intensified operations, additional checkpoints, and troop deployments, while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to eradicating terrorism.

Barbir’s brief but pointed reply has sparked widespread reactions online, with many interpreting it as a call for greater global attention to Nigeria’s crisis.

Barbir, founder of the humanitarian organization Building Zion, has spent years documenting and responding to violence in Nigeria’s volatile regions.

He has rebuilt dozens of homes for internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly in areas like Yelewata and other affected communities in Benue and Plateau states.

The missionary has repeatedly highlighted what he and others describe as targeted attacks on Christian populations by jihadist groups, Fulani militants, and bandits.

His latest intervention comes against a backdrop of renewed insecurity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Reports continue to emerge of attacks on farming communities, killings, and abductions, particularly in the North-Central and North-East regions, fueling debates over the government’s effectiveness in addressing the crisis.

Nigeria has faced decades of complex security threats, including Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgencies, farmer-herder clashes, and banditry.

Advocacy groups and international observers have documented thousands of deaths, with Christians often disproportionately affected in certain regions, though the Nigerian government consistently rejects characterizations of “genocide” or purely religious targeting, attributing much of the violence to criminality, resource conflicts, and socio-economic factors.

President Tinubu and his officials have maintained that no religious genocide is occurring and emphasize efforts to combat all forms of violence through military operations and socio-economic interventions.

Critics, however, argue that the scale and frequency of attacks demand stronger action and more transparent accountability.

Barbir’s appeal has elicited mixed responses. Supporters view it as a brave humanitarian’s cry for help on behalf of vulnerable communities.

Others question his focus and motives, with some accusing him of inflaming religious tensions or advancing selective narratives.

Past incidents involving the missionary have also drawn scrutiny from Nigerian authorities.

As Netanyahu prioritizes Israel’s security, Barbir’s message underscores how Nigeria’s challenges continue to attract international concern from faith-based actors and diaspora voices.

With the country grappling with multiple security fronts, the incident highlights the urgent need for sustained, effective solutions that protect all citizens regardless of faith.

Humanitarian efforts like Barbir’s—rebuilding homes and drawing global eyes—offer temporary relief but also amplify calls for lasting peace and justice in affected communities.

This story continues to develop as Nigerians and the international community monitor both domestic security responses and any potential diplomatic ripples.