Fresh concerns have emerged over the state of religious freedom in Nigeria following the United States’ decision to classify the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged widespread attacks on Christian communities.
The move follows renewed criticism of Nigeria’s response to violent incidents in Christian-dominated regions. Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump warned of major diplomatic and military consequences if the killings were not stopped, directing the U.S. Department of War to prepare for potential intervention, which he described as “fast, vicious, and sweet.”
Amid growing international reactions, Pope Leo voiced deep worry on his official X account, lamenting the repeated assaults on Christian worship centres and communities worldwide. He highlighted Nigeria among countries where Christians continue to face discrimination and deadly attacks.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution. I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship,” the Pontiff stated.
Extending his prayers, he also sympathised with families in the Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where civilians were recently massacred. “God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children. Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he added.
In another development, American rapper Onika Maraj-Petty, popularly known as Nicki Minaj, is scheduled to speak today at a United Nations event in New York. She is expected to address reports of jihadist attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Minaj will appear alongside the U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Michael Waltz, and Alex Bruesewitz, an adviser to President Trump and the event’s convener. The event was first disclosed by Time magazine’s senior political correspondent, Eric Cortellessa.
Confirming the report, Ambassador Waltz praised Minaj for using her influence to spotlight what he described as “atrocities against Christians in Nigeria,” noting that she was “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist, but also a principled individual who refused to remain silent.”
Reacting via X, Minaj said she was grateful for the opportunity, stressing that she does not take the responsibility lightly. She affirmed that she would “never stand down in the face of injustice,” adding that her global platform carries purpose beyond entertainment.
The planned UN engagement comes after Trump accused Nigeria of experiencing an ongoing “Christian genocide” and pushed for the country’s immediate CPC designation. He also urged Congress to take urgent action—an effort Minaj publicly applauded.
However, the Nigerian government has firmly rejected claims of religiously motivated violence, insisting that the nation’s security challenges stem from criminal activities and banditry, not religious persecution.
Despite these assurances, U.S. officials continue to express strong concern over the situation, keeping Nigeria under close watch.
