CJC Empowers Nigerian Jewry to Reclaim the Title: “People of the Book.”

The Jewish people, throughout history, have been described as the “People of the Book,” which is pronounced as “Am HaSefer” in the Hebrew language. This title reflects the profound bond between the Jewish people and their sacred texts, particularly the Torah. This collection of books include the written and oral Torah, the Talmud, the Shulchan Aruch, the Haggadah, Siddurim, etc. For hundreds of years, Jews have worked diligently to study and keep these books safe. They have also built up a huge library of commentaries, regulations, and liturgical works that expand on them.

For Jewish communities worldwide, access to these texts is fundamental for learning, practicing, and preserving their traditions. However, for some communities—especially those in regions where Jewish infrastructure is still developing—this access remains limited. This has been the case in Nigeria, where growing Jewish communities often face difficulties obtaining essential religious texts such as Chumashim (the Five Books of Moses), Siddurim (prayer books), Shulchan Aruch (the Code of Jewish Law), and other vital materials.

This lack of access has raised an important question among Nigerian Jews: Can we still call ourselves the “People of the Book” if the Book itself is not within our reach?

A loud “yes” has just been provided in response to that question as a result of a commendable initiative that includes the efforts of both indigenous groups and international organizations.

A Joyous Occasion for Nigerian Jewry

Throwing more light on the development, Bezrat Hashem, a joyous occasion, recently unfolded for the Nigerian Jewish community. The Commonwealth Jewish Council (CJC), an umbrella organization supporting Jewish communities across the various countries under the Commonwealth, extended a generous hand to Jews in Nigeria. Through its collaboration with one of the foremost Jewish organizations in Nigeria, which is the “Judaism Fellowship Initiative” (JFI), the CJC sent a shipment of essential Judaica materials meant for various Jewish communities across Nigeria.

This shipment contained an array of sacred items: Chumashim, Siddurim, Machzorim (holiday prayer books), Haggadot (used during the Passover Seder), Tefillin (phylacteries), and others. These are not just religious objects—they are essential instruments that link Jews to their faith, to each other, and to generations both past and future.

The official distribution event occurred in Anambra State on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Representatives from the synagogue and JFI convened with Jewish leaders to collect their community’s allocation of materials. The atmosphere brimmed with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of unity and purpose.

Strengthening Global Jewish Responsibility

At the event, Author Regis, President of the Judaism Fellowship Initiative, delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting the Jewish value Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh — “All Jews are responsible for one another.” This principle, which has sustained Jewish people through centuries of dispersion and diversity, was vividly reflected in the CJC’s generous support.

Regis noted that this initiative was not merely about books and religious items—it was about rekindling connection: among communities, across generations, and between each Jew and their sacred heritage.

“This is what it truly means to be the People of the Book,” he said. “It means ensuring that no Jew, anywhere, is left without access to the tools of our tradition.”

The materials were equitably distributed among attending synagogues and leaders. In the words of Abba Yerimyahu Eyong, Vice President of JFI, “The leadership of JFI is so mature that materials are shared and every community is happy with the sharing. It is rarely seen.” Each recipient left not just with books and items in hand, but with a renewed sense of belonging.

The gathering also created a rare opportunity for Jewish leaders across Nigeria to meet—some for the first time. It became a spontaneous unity event, fostering stronger relationships within the national Jewish network. I personally recall meeting the national treasurer, Engr. Daniel, whom I had not seen in over four years. He exclaimed, “Rishon, is this you? Baruch Haba!” I could not contain my joy. It felt like a family reunion.

A Growing Community with Unshaken Faith

There are many synagogues and minhagim in different states that make up the Nigerian Jewish community, which is increasing. Even though they still face problems like not having enough resources and being far away from other Jews, they are nonetheless committed to Jewish life. Education, prayer, and observance continue to thrive, now with the added support of global Jewish solidarity.

This donation marks a turning point. With access to these essential materials, more Nigerian Jews can now study Torah, pray from traditional texts, observe mitzvot, and teach the next generation. It is a significant step in securing the continuity of Jewish life in Nigeria.

In a world often divided by race, customs, and differences, stories like this remind us of what truly binds us together. Across continents and cultures, the Jewish people remain one family—united by the Book and by the responsibility we carry for one another. My earnest prayer is that one day, every Nigerian Jewish community will have its own library, and every individual will possess the materials they need to meet the demands of the Knesset during davening.

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