Rapper Nicki Minaj Highlights Threats to Christians in Nigeria

Published: 19 November 2025 Wednesday . The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

US-based Trinidadian rapper Nicki Minaj has publicly voiced her support for President Donald Trump’s recent assertions that Christians in Nigeria are being systematically persecuted. Speaking at a United Nations event organized by the United States on Tuesday, Minaj emphasized the importance of highlighting the struggles faced by Christian communities in the West African nation.

“In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted,” Minaj told the assembled audience. “Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart … simply because of how they pray.” Her remarks were made in the context of broader discussions on religious freedom and the protection of vulnerable populations. Minaj framed her support for the cause as an issue of universal human rights rather than political partisanship, stating, “This is not about taking sides or dividing people, but about uniting humanity.”

The rapper’s comments came shortly after Trump reiterated threats to intervene in Nigeria if the government “continues to allow the killing of Christians,” an alarming statement that has drawn international attention. Trump’s remarks have sparked debates in Washington and Abuja alike, highlighting ongoing concerns about religious violence in Nigeria and raising questions about the potential role of foreign governments in addressing the issue.

Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, stressed the moral imperative of speaking out against injustice. “This is about standing up in the face of injustice. It’s about what I’ve always stood for,” she said while appearing alongside Mike Waltz, the US ambassador to the UN. The rapper also thanked Trump for “prioritizing this issue and for his leadership” on religious freedom, praising his administration’s efforts to spotlight the challenges faced by persecuted communities worldwide.

During her speech, Minaj also acknowledged the fans who have supported her over the years, noting the presence of her Nigerian fanbase. “Nigeria is a beautiful nation with deep faith traditions,” she said, “and I want to recognize the beautiful Barbz who have stood with me and continue to inspire me to use my platform for good.” Her comments were widely covered on social media, with fans and human rights advocates commending her for leveraging her visibility to raise awareness on an important issue.

The context for Minaj’s remarks involves a long history of violence in Nigeria, particularly in the central and northern regions of the country. For years, Islamist militant groups and other armed factions have carried out attacks that have killed and displaced thousands of Nigerians. While right-wing campaigners and politicians in the United States have highlighted the targeting of Christians in particular, experts caution that the situation is more complex. Analysts argue that deadly disputes in Nigeria are often driven by competition over vital resources such as land, water, and fuel, or by inter-ethnic tensions rather than solely by religious differences.

The Nigerian government has maintained that the violence in the country affects all citizens, regardless of religion. A spokesperson for the presidency said, “Terrorists attack all who reject their murderous ideology – Muslims, Christians, and those of no faith alike.” Despite this, allegations of Christian persecution have persisted and have become a focal point for some international advocacy groups.

Minaj’s intervention represents her most prominent political engagement to date. While she has occasionally spoken on social issues, this marks a significant escalation in her involvement in international political discourse. She drew attention to the moral responsibility of individuals with influence, stating, “The Barbz and I will never stand down in the face of injustice. We’ve been given our influence by God. There must be a bigger purpose.”

The rapper’s advocacy comes amidst a backdrop of her continued influence in popular culture and social media. Known for her outspoken personality and ability to shape public conversations, Minaj has previously courted controversy over topics ranging from her music to public health statements. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, she made headlines for sharing unverified claims about the side effects of vaccines, leading to widespread media coverage and criticism from public health authorities.

In addition to her activism, Minaj’s public life has often included disputes with other artists. Her long-running feud with fellow New York rapper Cardi B has occasionally made headlines, with the two exchanging insults both online and in interviews. Nevertheless, Minaj’s recent UN appearance underscores her capacity to pivot from entertainment controversies to serious humanitarian advocacy.

Trump’s recent remarks about sending troops into Nigeria have intensified the conversation around religious freedom in the country. While some view the comments as a strong stance against persecution, others have raised concerns about sovereignty, international law, and the potential for unintended consequences if military action were ever considered. Human rights observers emphasize that addressing the root causes of violence, including poverty, governance failures, and resource disputes, remains critical to protecting all vulnerable communities in Nigeria.

Minaj’s speech at the UN also reflects broader debates about the role of celebrity advocacy in shaping international policy. With millions of followers worldwide, artists like Minaj can amplify issues that may otherwise receive limited attention, pressuring policymakers and governments to act. Critics, however, caution that celebrity interventions must be grounded in accurate data and careful analysis to avoid oversimplification or the spread of misinformation.

In response to Minaj’s remarks, Waltz expressed gratitude for her engagement, stating that leveraging prominent platforms to highlight global human rights concerns is a crucial aspect of international diplomacy. “We thank Nicki Minaj for using her voice to shine a light on the atrocities against Christians in Nigeria,” Waltz said, emphasizing the importance of public awareness in mobilizing political and humanitarian responses.

The ongoing violence in Nigeria has drawn attention from multiple international organizations and governments. The UN and other human rights groups continue to monitor the situation, documenting attacks, displacement, and abuses perpetrated by various armed groups. While the precise scale of religiously motivated attacks is contested, there is broad agreement that ensuring the safety of civilians and fostering interfaith tolerance are urgent priorities.

Minaj’s intervention, therefore, comes at a critical moment. By speaking publicly, she has helped bring an additional layer of attention to the plight of Nigerian communities affected by violence. For many advocates, her involvement serves as a reminder that celebrity influence can extend beyond entertainment and contribute meaningfully to global awareness campaigns.

As Nigeria continues to navigate the complex interplay of ethnicity, religion, and governance, international voices like Minaj’s may help sustain attention and encourage dialogue around human rights protections. Whether her remarks will influence policy or the actions of governments remains to be seen, but her engagement signals the increasing intersection of culture, politics, and activism in a globalized media landscape.

The UN event also provided a platform for broader discussions on religious persecution and human rights, offering policymakers, activists, and cultural figures an opportunity to engage in dialogue about solutions. Minaj’s contribution highlighted the moral and ethical dimensions of advocacy, emphasizing that raising awareness is not simply symbolic but can catalyze tangible change when paired with informed policy measures.

In concluding her remarks, Minaj reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform responsibly. She stated, “We have to stand for what is right. Whether in music, politics, or daily life, we cannot ignore injustice. If we are blessed with influence, it must serve a greater purpose than entertainment alone.” Her remarks resonated with attendees and were widely circulated across media channels, sparking renewed debate on both the situation in Nigeria and the broader role of celebrity activism in international affairs.

The conversation around Christian persecution in Nigeria, while complex, continues to be shaped by political statements, media coverage, and public advocacy. Minaj’s intervention, coupled with Trump’s high-profile remarks, ensures that the issue remains at the forefront of global attention, while also highlighting the responsibilities of influential figures in contributing to humanitarian discourse.