Kanuri became Muslims in the 11th century. The people are intensely proud of their ancient tradition of Islamic statehood. The traditional Kanuri dress consists of large robe-type garments that are worn with turbans or brightly embroidered caps. Social organization emphasizes the importance of the nuclear family and the supreme authority of the father. The greater the number in a household, the more prestige the family head is given. The divorce rate among the Kanuri is extremely high, with eight out of ten marriages ending in divorce.

The Kanuri people have been strong adherents of their current religion for generations. Change of religion requires change of worldview, and this is difficult. The entire country of Niger is strongly Muslim.

No Christian resources are known to be available in the language of the Tumari Kanuri. Much prayer is needed for the creation of resources, and to prepare the people for the Gospel message.

There are probably no followers of Christ today among this people. Please pray for those the Lord will soon call to himself, that the Lord is even now preparing pastors and teachers for them.

Please pray that all Kanuri tribes will be given an increasing desire to know Jesus (whom Muslims call Isa al-Masih) as the Koran is read in the mosque. Pray for spiritual hunger.