Pope Warns Against Rising Violence, Persecution of Christians in Nigeria and Beyond

Pope Leo has raised fresh concerns over increasing violence, discrimination, and persecution targeting Christian communities in several countries, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). His warning comes amid renewed scrutiny following the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over allegations of targeted attacks on Christian populations.

The United States has sharply criticised Nigeria’s handling of repeated assaults on predominantly Christian communities. Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump warned of potential diplomatic and military consequences if the violence persisted, directing the Department of War to prepare possible response options, saying any intervention would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”

In a message shared on his official X account, the Pope lamented ongoing attacks on Christian groups and worship centres worldwide, urging the international community to act collectively in pursuit of peace.

“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,” he wrote.

The Pontiff also offered prayers to victims of recent atrocities, particularly families in the Kivu region of the DRC, where numerous civilians were recently killed.

“God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children. I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu… Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he added.

Nicki Minaj to Address UN on Alleged Persecution of Christians in Nigeria

Meanwhile, American rapper Onika Maraj-Petty (Nicki Minaj) is expected to speak today at a United Nations event in New York, where she will address reported jihadist attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

She will appear alongside U.S. ambassador to the UN, Michael Waltz, and Alex Bruesewitz, a senior adviser to President Trump and organiser of the event. The development was first reported by Time magazine’s senior political correspondent Eric Cortellessa.

Ambassador Waltz praised Minaj as “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist, but also a principled individual who refused to remain silent in the face of injustice,” adding that he appreciated her willingness to spotlight “atrocities against Christians in Nigeria.”

Minaj, responding via X, said she was honoured by the invitation and would “never stand down in the face of injustice,” noting that her platform carried a purpose beyond entertainment.

The UN event follows President Trump’s claim that a “Christian genocide” is underway in Nigeria, as well as his announcement that the country will be formally designated a Country of Particular Concern. Minaj publicly supported Trump’s stance.

Nigeria’s federal government has repeatedly rejected allegations of religious persecution, insisting that the nation’s security challenges are driven by criminal activities rather than faith-based motives. Despite this, U.S. officials have continued to express alarm over the situation.