A Nigerian pastor is set to receive a bravery award for his courage in continuing his ministry after surviving a life-threatening stabbing attack by extremists.
Tobias Yahaya will receive Aid to the Church in Need’s “Courage to Be a Christian” Award on November 19 at St. George’s Cathedral.
A group of extremists broke into Yahaya’s bedroom and stabbed him in the chest as he lay in bed. According to doctors, the wounds were life-threatening, and he was just inches from death.
Yahaya said he feels deeply humbled and honored to receive the award. The incident was the third—and most severe—of a series of attacks against him, all confirmed in court as religiously motivated.
Despite the assault, he returned to his ministry after three months. Though he sometimes feels afraid to continue, Yahaya said he will do whatever it takes to share his faith.
The award to be presented to Yahaya recognizes remarkable individuals who have demonstrated courage amid persecution for their Christian faith.
Expressing his deep gratitude for being selected for this year’s honor, which will be presented during the annual #RedWednesday Mass, Yahaya said he is dedicating it to his family and to “persecuted Christians around the world.”