In recent years, the growing uncertainty surrounding Nigeria’s economy has captured headlines, yet another crisis looms quietly yet ominously in the background: the escalating insecurity faced by religious personnel, particularly priests and nuns. The abduction and killing of these indigenous missionaries has become tragically commonplace, often occurring without any repercussions for the perpetrators. This reality should be deeply unsettling, especially when we consider the invaluable contributions they make to their communities.

But why should we care? Why should their plight resonate with us when they have seemingly chosen a life of service, one that could be perceived as signing off on their own safety for the sake of the Church and humanity?

To dismiss this crisis as a mere occupational hazard would be to overlook a profound and disturbing shift in our societal values. The increasing normalization of violence against religious figures signals a dangerous erosion of the sense of meaning and sacredness that underpins both faith and community. Perhaps to be silent will be to be complicit in the gradual loss of respect for life and the sacred duties that priests and missionaries generally fulfill.

The role of priests in Nigeria extends far beyond the confines of the Church. These dedicated individuals are integral to the social fabric of their communities, engaging in educational initiatives, healthcare access and various local projects that would otherwise require substantial financial resources if outsourced. Their commitment embodies Jesus’ proclamation that “the harvest is rich, but the laborers are few,” a sentiment that resonates profoundly in the African context. Despite the burgeoning number of vocations, the pastoral challenges faced by priests and nuns continue to multiply, demanding their unwavering dedication and resilience.

Quantifying the contributions of Christian faith through the work of our indigenous clergy and religious congregations in terms of education, health care and community support reveals an astonishing value — potentially billions in billable hours dedicated to the service of humanity. Indeed, measuring their overall impact may be complex due to the diverse contexts in which they operate, but the positive effects of their work on national development are undeniable and significant.

Thus, the urgent need to address the continuing attacks on these individuals cannot be overstated. Their service should remain untouched by political ideologies or distortions; at the very least, we should demand a return to decency and justice. The violence against religious personnel is not merely an attack on individuals but an affront to the very principles of compassion and community that they embody.

As we observe All Souls’ Day this year, let us take a moment to remember the missionaries who have lost their lives in the line of duty. May they rest in peace, and may their unwavering faithfulness inspire us to reflect on our collective responsibility. It is time for society to confront this growing crisis with urgency and empathy, recognizing that the safety of those who serve us spiritually is a reflection of our own values. It is not just their plight; it is a mirror held up to our collective conscience. Let us not look away.

Father Augustine Dada is associate pastor at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Elmsford, New York, and supports his home diocese of Ondo, Nigeria.