Marghi, South in Nigeria

People Name:	Marghi, South
Country:	Nigeria
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	261,000
World Population:	261,000
Primary Language:	Marghi South
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	67.00 %
Evangelicals:	8.50 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Chadic
Affinity Bloc:	Sub-Saharan Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Their name means "Marghi cry with drums," referring to the distinctive drum-songs used at festivals and funerals. Also known as Margi South, they are closely related to Marghi Central and Marghi West. The people live in rural areas keeping small farms.

There has been a Christian influence since the 1920s; 70 to 80 percent claim church affiliation and attend Sunday services. Though Marghi Christians are in the majority, they still suffer both subtle and overt persecution from those professing other beliefs. They are denied jobs, promotions and raises they deserve. Sometimes they can't get services to which they are entitled because of their beliefs, for example, authorities withhold building permits for churches. This kind of treatment discourages the believers.

Scripture in their mother tongue will both strengthen their personal faith and it will give them tools through which to share their faith with others. Believers are concerned about divorce, substance abuse and the spread of HIV/AIDS. Couples need to discover their identity in Jesus and look to Him to meet their needs, allowing His life through them to slow the soaring divorce rate. Those caught in the trap of substance abuse and sexual promiscuity need to know the One who can satisfy the longings that can lead to destructive behaviors.