Rome: A Vatican commissioned study has confirmed that Africa remains the most affected continent in the world for modern day Christian martyrdom, with thousands losing their lives in acts of targeted violence.

The Commission of New Martyrs, established by Pope Francis in 2023, revealed that in the past 25 years, more than 1600 Christians have been killed globally because of their faith. Africa leads the statistics, with Sub Saharan countries accounting for the largest share. Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and Europe follow in descending order.

The report, compiled in collaboration with Aid to the Church in Need, noted that 643 Christians were killed in Sub Saharan Africa and parts of Asia and Oceania, 357 in the Americas, 304 in the Middle East, 277 in Asia, and 43 in Europe. The study further warns that the real numbers are likely higher, as many cases in remote or conflict ridden regions remain undocumented.

Nigeria has emerged as the epicenter of Christian persecution in Africa. Independent human rights monitors estimate that more than 7000 Christians were killed in the country between January and July 2025 alone, an average of 30 deaths per day. Over 7800 were reportedly abducted during the same period. States such as Benue and Plateau have been particularly hard hit by the violence.

The violence has been attributed to extremist groups, including Boko Haram, Islamic State affiliates, and radicalized Fulani militias. Analysts point to a mix of religious extremism, ethnic tensions, and land disputes as key drivers behind the surge in attacks.

Church leaders and human rights organizations continue to urge the international community to act decisively, warning that Christian communities in parts of Africa face an existential threat if the crisis is not addressed with urgency.