Bitrus, Hannatu Dan’Asali

Hannatu Dan’Asali Bitrus is an international Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mass communications at the University of Maiduguri in Nigeria.

The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world.

Her home congregation is the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Filiya. Involved in youth and young adult ministry, she loved teaching Sunday school.

“My spiritual journey has been a winding path, full of ups and downs,” Hannatu said. “I have experienced teasing from friends because I am born again, to the extent of [people] calling me names like ‘church girl’ because I was involved in church activities. But through it all, I’ve learned to appreciate the importance of faith, hope and love.” She especially treasures personal quiet time when she can study the Bible and other Christian literature.

“One of the most significant moments on my journey,” Hannatu said, “was developing a close relationship with God. It taught me the importance of having quality time with my Savior and showed me the power of loving and trusting God, even in a country where religion is a major challenge. Having a close relationship with God gives me strength and peace.”

Hannatu is confident that God calls her to serve others.

“I feel called to mission,” she said, “because of the love I have for God and my taste to touch people’s lives, to feel the love of God and his grace that is sufficient. It gives me joy to share the word of God’s love and to make an impact on people’s lives.” She views mission as a way to fulfill her life and to glorify God.

Hannatu is especially excited about using the communication skills honed at a local FM radio station during college. Working as a reporter, she said, “I was able to address issues of gender equality.” She looks forward to sharing information through social media, TV and radio and by creating public forums on issues of interest.