Nicki Minaj urged unity and immediate action to address the persecution of Christians in Nigeria during her speech at the United Nations in New York City. She expressed gratitude for the efforts of former President Donald Trump in protecting Nigerian Christians who are facing severe threats and violence.
Minaj spoke on November 1, 2023, at an event organized by U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz. Her address highlighted the recent abduction of 25 schoolgirls, underscoring the urgent need for international attention to the plight of Christians in Nigeria. She stated, “No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion… we don’t have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.”
The ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria has been alarming. Since the emergence of the militant group Boko Haram in 2009, approximately 50,000 Christians have reportedly lost their lives, according to a report by Rep. Tim Moore of West Virginia, who was tasked by Trump to investigate the issue. Furthermore, the organization Open Doors has reported that Nigeria ranks as the seventh most dangerous country for Christians.
Minaj emphasized the severe consequences of this persecution, stating, “In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes and killed. Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart, and entire communities live in fear.” She urged that this crisis is not limited to Nigeria, as similar issues affect Christians in various countries worldwide, demanding a collective response.
Her support for persecuted Christians began publicly on social media, where she commended Trump for his attention to the attacks against Nigerian Christians. “Protecting Christians in Nigeria is not about taking sides or dividing people. It is about uniting humanity,” she asserted.
The UN event served as a platform to raise awareness about religious persecution, with Minaj’s presence drawing media attention to a cause that often struggles for visibility. Her passionate appeal resonated with attendees, highlighting the importance of global solidarity in addressing human rights violations.
As discussions on religious freedom continue, Minaj’s statements reflect a broader call for action that transcends political and cultural boundaries. The urgency of the situation in Nigeria, coupled with her celebrity influence, may help galvanize support for those facing persecution based on their faith.
This address serves as a reminder that the fight for religious freedom remains critical, and collaborative efforts are essential in tackling this ongoing crisis.
