Nigeria’s YWAM Sees Former Militants Turn to Evangelism Amidst Ongoing Violence
By [Your Name], International Editor
ABUJA, Nigeria – In a nation grappling with relentless violence and accusations of genocide, a surprising transformation is unfolding: former militants, including those linked to Boko Haram, are finding faith and becoming evangelists, according to reports from Youth With A Mission (YWAM). The shift comes as international scrutiny of the situation in Nigeria intensifies, with the U.S. recently re-designating the country as a “country of particular concern” for religious freedom.
For years, Christians in Nigeria have endured targeted attacks, including beheadings, rape, arson, and torture. A new film, “Go Africa,” produced by YWAM, documents these atrocities and highlights the work of missionaries attempting to bring hope to the region. The film features testimonies from child soldiers who have renounced violence and embraced Christianity.
YWAM ministry-training bases are witnessing a surge in individuals seeking healing and spiritual guidance. Up to 150 Christian widows, whose husbands – many pastors – have been killed, arrive at a YWAM base every six months for trauma support. Some have even come face-to-face with their husbands’ killers, including former militants who have since repented.
“They want to do jihad. They want to force people to convert to Islam. It’s not only the Christians who are suffering; many Muslims are also suffering. It’s just demonic what is happening,” said Paul Dangtoudma, leader of one of YWAM’s largest bases in Africa, whose location remains undisclosed for security reasons.
Dangtoudma, who relocated to Nigeria from Burkina Faso, recounts establishing the base on land previously owned by militants and occultists. His wife, Rachel Dangtoudma, originally from South Africa, initially feared for their daughters’ safety but experienced a profound change of heart. “God changed my heart and gave me His heart for the nation of Nigeria,” she said.
The transformation isn’t limited to individual conversions. Graduates of YWAM’s discipleship training school are now pursuing careers in fields like law and ministry, with some becoming pastors and worship leaders. One graduate is now practicing law in England.
The film “Go Africa” also recounts the story of a young man driven to seek revenge for his sister’s rape, who delved into dark spiritual practices and briefly experienced a resurrection through Satanic forces before ultimately finding redemption through faith.
YWAM reports that a female missionary has confirmed widespread, mass murder of Christians in Nigeria, exceeding the numbers seen in other nations globally. A local woman, whose identity was not revealed, expressed relief that the situation was finally receiving attention. “So that someone actually thought of bringing this to light is really nice,” she said.
The situation in Nigeria has drawn concern from international bodies and governments. In December 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump directed the House Appropriations Committee to investigate allegations of Christian genocide in the country, following a period where the Biden administration had eased its focus on the issue.
Despite the ongoing challenges, YWAM missionaries remain optimistic. They believe Nigeria has the potential to become a beacon of hope for the African continent and beyond.
“I believe God is busy raising up an army of Nigerians to go into all the world to make Him known,” Rachel Dangtoudma said. Her husband added, “Nigeria will impact the world… We will see a model of society that God wants to establish.”
“Go Africa” is dedicated to Loren Cunningham, the founder of YWAM, and was directed by his son, David L. Cunningham. The film is available for free viewing and download: https://www.thegomovie.org/.
YWAM also shared updates on their work in Nigeria in October 2025: https://www.youtube.com/live/t-88OrbXlXE?si=lrhyMYhvE8Mjd5yx&t=255
Reporting contributed by CBN News.
