Pope Leo has again expressed deep concern over the growing violence, discrimination, and persecution faced by Christian communities in several countries, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
His warning comes shortly after the United States designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over allegations of widespread attacks on Christian communities. The Nigerian government has faced intense criticism for what many describe as inadequate protection of Christian-majority areas.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Nigeria could face serious diplomatic and military consequences if the violence persisted. He directed the U.S. Department of War to prepare for possible intervention, stressing that any action would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”
Sharing his message on X, Pope Leo condemned the continuous attacks on Christian populations and places of worship and urged global unity in promoting peace and justice.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution,” he wrote. “I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries where we frequently hear of attacks on communities and worship centres.”
The Pope also offered prayers for families affected by recent killings in the Kivu region of the DRC, where dozens of civilians were reportedly massacred.
“God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children,” he said. “Let us pray that violence ceases everywhere and that believers work together for the common good.”
Nicki Minaj to Speak at UN on Nigeria’s Christian Crisis
In a related development, American rapper Nicki Minaj is set to speak at a United Nations event in New York today, where she is expected to address alleged jihadist attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Minaj will appear alongside U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Michael Waltz, and Alex Bruesewitz, an adviser to President Trump and organiser of the programme. The news was first announced by Time magazine’s senior political correspondent, Eric Cortellessa.
Ambassador Waltz praised Minaj, calling her “not only one of the greatest female recording artists, but also a principled individual who refuses to remain silent in the face of injustice.”
Minaj thanked him, saying she did not take the responsibility lightly and would “never stand down in the face of injustice,” adding that her influence must serve a greater purpose
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Nicki Minaj to Speak at UN Event on Alleged Attacks on Christians in Nigeria
The UN event follows Trump’s recent assertion that a “Christian genocide” is unfolding in Nigeria and his classification of the country as a CPC. He also urged the U.S. Congress to act immediately. Minaj publicly applauded Trump for speaking out on the issue.
The Nigerian government, however, has firmly denied claims of religious persecution, insisting that insecurity stems from criminality and not faith-based violence.
Despite this stance, American lawmakers and several international groups have continued to express worry over the situation.
