As we reflect on SIM's history in Africa, we see God's faithfulness across generations and continents. He has drawn many people to Himself and raised up His church among the nations through cross-cultural mission.

In 1893 the first mission workers arrived in Nigeria to bring the Gospel to the unreached. 100 years later, the president of the Evangelical Church Winning All shared at a SIM gathering to celebrate this milestone, reflecting on the sacrificial work of the early pioneers who responded to God's missional call. It was a deeply moving reflection as he shed tears, rejoicing in the advancement of the Gospel in the region once known as the "Soudan".

As stories were shared, Nigerian communities recalled the moments in 1912 when the Gospel of Jesus Christ first reached their villages and transformation took place in families, communities, and the spiritual landscape of the nation forever.

Today, dozens of Nigerian Christians are serving with SIM around the world, many in leadership roles to proclaim Christ to communities who don't know Him.

Mission workers Phil & Janne Andrew have been associated with SIM for more than 45 years, beginning their service in Nigeria in 1979. Phil served across a wide range of roles, working in medical ministry through training doctors, providing medical consultancy, and serving in leadership capacities - including as Director with SIM Nigeria. He contributed significantly to SIM Australia, serving as a member of the National Council for ten years. Together, Phil and Janne have reflected a deep and enduring commitment to making Christ known.

They have witnessed young Nigerian believers actively shaping God’s kingdom, locally and globally. It is a powerful reminder that God’s work continues through every generation, often multiplied in ways that stretch far beyond the original vision.

Their story sits within a much larger tapestry of God’s faithful servants — men and women who have served across Africa, through every season and in every age, often unseen but never unnoticed by God. As we look back, we give heartfelt thanks to God for all who have served in Africa and beyond, and for the countless lives transformed through their obedience and perseverance.

And as we look forward, we pray for and encourage those currently serving, and those God is still calling to step out in faith. May we continue to trust that God is at work faithfully in every age and every nation.

PRAY 

Praise God and give thanks for His faithfulness in every age and every nation. Pray that God would raise up more workers to enter least reached communities globally to transform lives. Visit sim.org.au/pray to find out more.

GO 

For current mission opportunities, please visit sim.org.au/go to learn more about how you could partner with SIM Australia in God’s mission to the least reached.

EVENTS 

Save the Date!

As we celebrate 100 years of mission through SIM Australia, come hear Phil Bauman, SIM International Director, our keynote speaker in November 2026.

• Melbourne – 7 November Celebration Dinner
• Sydney – 13-15 November SIM Community Weekend Away

Express your interest or find out more at sim.org.au/events.