Arab, Syrian in Nigeria

Introduction / History

The Levant Arabs settled all over the Arabian Peninsula and later migrated to North Africa. They are spread from Israel to Kuwait and as far east as Iran. "Levant" is a broad term that includes several groups of Arabs: the Jordanian, Palestinian, Iraqi, Chaldean, and Syrian Arabs. Each of these speaks a different form of the Arabic language.

Before the Syrian Civil War began in 2011, there were already 18 million Syrian Arabs in Diaspora. This earlier group mainly comprised people seeking economic opportunities, though there were also political refugees. Most of these people have financial and educational means. They are (to various degrees) assimilated into a different culture.

Most of the Syrian Diaspora is in Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey or Germany. They also live in many other countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa, including Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There are not many Syrian Arabs in Nigeria. One of them is a wealthy businessman who is developing the diamond industry and tourism.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Syrian Arabs in Nigeria are Shafiite Muslims or Alawites. The Shafiites are one of four schools of Sunni Islam. There are Shia splinter groups among them, namely the Twelvers and Imamis. However, Syrian Arabs also have a strong Orthodox or Maronite Christian presence.

What Are Their Needs?

Syria’s civil war ended in 2024, and there is still danger of retribution and violence. This takes an emotional toll on Syrians in Nigeria.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Diaspora situation will provide Syrian Arabs the chance to embrace the only savior.
Pray that Syrian refugees will spend time reading God’s word and discipling new Christian believers.
Pray for Syrian Arab Christians who will disciple others and teach them to do the same.
Pray for Syrian Arab family leaders to have dreams of the victorious and righteous Christ and share their experiences with many others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project