For nearly three decades, Joseph Chijioke has dedicated his life to shaping the faith and future of young people across Nigeria. Serving as the Head of Department, Youth Affairs at Scripture Union Nigeria, he leads a national team that coordinates school fellowships, youth camps, and leadership programs designed to raise a generation grounded in the Word of God.

Building Faith Through Discipleship and Holistic Ministry

Since joining Scripture Union in 1996, Joseph has been at the heart of developing programs that reach thousands of young Nigerians. His department oversees:

  • School Fellowships: nurturing faith among secondary school students.
  • Youth Camps: building leadership, discipline, and fellowship through immersive training.
  • Aid for Life (Holistic Ministry): addressing real-life concerns—education, social responsibility, and personal development—so that students grow in every area of life.

“Our goal is not just to preach the Gospel,” Joseph explains, “but to help young people become socially and academically responsible to themselves and their communities.”

Reaching the North: Faith Amid Persecution

Scripture Union’s work extends across Nigeria—from the vibrant South to the challenging mission fields of the North. In northern Nigeria, where persecution remains a daily reality for Christians, ministry takes on a different form.

“We do more of secret discipleship work there,” Joseph says softly. “It’s dangerous to preach openly, but God gives us strength. We’ve seen lives transformed in places where faith comes at a cost.”

Through partnerships and generous sponsors, Bibles continue to reach these mission fields. Missionaries, often supported by southern states, distribute both Scripture and essential medical aid. In these regions, the Bible is not just a book—it’s a lifeline.

The Gift of the NLT Africa Edition Bible

Before partnering with Oasis International, Bibles were difficult and expensive to obtain. But through this partnership, affordable NLT Africa Edition Bibles have revolutionized access to God’s Word for students and missionaries alike.

“Now our members can buy Bibles in good numbers and send them to schools and mission fields,” Joseph shares joyfully. “Those who couldn’t afford one before now have a Bible in their hands.”

This access has opened new doors for discipleship, church engagement, and community outreach. Churches are reaching out to Scripture Union not just for Bible study materials, but also to empower their members with the Word of God.

Strengthening the Heart of the Mission: Bible Engagement

At the core of Scripture Union’s work is Bible engagement—helping people meet God daily through Scripture and prayer. The ministry produces Bible study outlines and devotionals for young people, ensuring they develop consistent spiritual habits.

“The best part of our work,” Joseph reflects, “is seeing people come to know Jesus as their Savior and then helping them meet God daily through the Bible.”

Raising a Bible-Reading Generation

Looking ahead, Scripture Union Nigeria is launching an ambitious project—to help young believers read through the entire Bible in one year. Using WhatsApp groups and local leaders, the movement is already spreading.

“We want a generation of young people committed not just to owning a Bible, but to reading and living it,” says Joseph. “That’s our deepest prayer.”

 

A Vision Worth Supporting

From secret discipleship in the north to thriving youth camps in the south, Scripture Union Nigeria continues to bring light into dark places—one Bible, one student, one story at a time.

Your partnership can help ensure that every young Nigerian has access to a Bible they can understand and cherish. Together, we can empower the next generation to know Christ and make Him known.

This interview transcript has been edited for clarity and conciseness.

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