A Nigerian preacher is set to receive an award for bravery after refusing to give up his ministry following a life-threatening stabbing by extremists.
Tobias Yahaya will receive Aid to the Church in Need’s Courage to Be Christian Award during a special ceremony this Wednesday at St. George’s Cathedral. Yahaya said he was “most humbled and honored to receive” the recognition after being nearly stabbed to death in his home by knife-wielding extremists.
A group of attackers reportedly broke into Yahaya’s bedroom and stabbed him in the chest as he lay in bed. The wounds were life-threatening, with doctors saying he was inches from certain death and lucky to be alive.
This attack marks the third—and most severe—of three assaults confirmed in court to be religiously motivated.
Despite the ordeal, Yahaya returned to his ministry just three months after the attack.
Although he admits he sometimes feels afraid to continue, Yahaya said he “will do whatever it takes” to share his faith.
The award honors inspiring individuals who have shown courage in the face of Christian persecution.
Yahaya expressed heartfelt gratitude for being chosen for this year’s award, which will be presented during the annual #RedWednesday Mass, saying he is dedicating it to his family and “persecuted Christians all over the world.”