The Gvoko people are also known as the Ngoshe Sama. They live in northeastern Nigeria and a smaller number spill over into Cameroon. Historically they fled to the hills to resist the Fulani Islamic holy wars. Today, some have become Muslim and wear traditional Islamic dress, however, the majority are split between traditional religious beliefs they have held for centuries and Christianity which has come through missionary efforts in the last seventy years.
Most of the Ngoshe Sama are farmers who raise peanuts, maize, and millet on hillside terraces. A man's work includes farming, crafting leather, making baskets, spinning, weaving, and building. Women make clay objects, train the small children, prepare the meals, and do other household activities.
Most Ngoshe Sama believe in a single god who is the creator of all things and who keeps his creation in order. They believe that this god only intervenes with his creation when order has been disturbed. The Ngoshe Sama do not pray to this god, but rather to their ancestors, who they believe will intercede on their behalf. The Ngoshe Sama believe that the Earth is the "mother goddess" who has birthed all other supernatural beings, including thunder and lightning, black snakes, crocodiles, and certain inanimate objects.
Although the Ngoshe Sama have shown some interest in Christian teachings, only a small percentage have accepted Jesus as their Savior. A few of the ethnic groups in the area are being approached by mission agencies, others have no missionaries working among them. Only a few groups have portions of the Bible written in their language.
Pray for them to have the spiritual hunger it takes to embrace Christ no matter what the cost.
Pray for the Lord to provide for their physical needs for good medical care, schools, and potable water.
Pray for Ngoshe Sama disciples who will make more disciples.
Scripture Prayers for the Ngoshe Sama, Ngossi in Cameroon.
References
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
