American rapper Nicki Minaj has turned global attention toward Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, particularly the repeated attacks on Christian communities, during a high-profile United Nations briefing on religious freedom.
The event, titled “Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria,” convened world leaders, activists, and influential voices to push for stronger protections for vulnerable religious minorities.
Addressing the forum on Tuesday evening, Minaj described the targeted violence in Nigeria as part of a broader global pattern of religious persecution. She highlighted that Christian communities in several regions of the country are still facing deadly assaults, forced displacement, and the destruction of churches and other sacred spaces.
“In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes, and killed,” she said. “Churches have been burned, families torn apart, and entire communities live in constant fear simply because of how they pray.”
Minaj noted that Nigeria’s situation reflects a troubling trend worldwide, where individuals continue to face intimidation, discrimination, and violence because of their beliefs. “Sadly, this problem is not only growing in Nigeria, but in many other countries across the world, and it demands urgent action,” she added.
She also commended former U.S. President Donald Trump for drawing attention to the plight of Nigerian Christians, praising him for prioritising the issue and advocating tougher measures against extremist violence.
Expressing hope for renewed global commitment, Minaj said: “I hope this encourages deepened solidarity for us to work together urgently, so every person can enjoy the right to believe, to worship, and to live in peace.”
The UN dialogue comes on the heels of Trump’s recent claim that Nigeria is witnessing a “Christian genocide,” as he announced plans to classify the country as a “Country of Particular Concern.”
The forum is expected to galvanise further international action toward addressing Nigeria’s escalating insecurity and protecting its religious minorities.
