Nicki Minaj Uses UN Platform to Support Nigerian Christians and Calls for Religious Freedom

Rapper Nicki Minaj spoke out about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria during a United Nations event organized by the United States, according to multiple reports.

She highlighted what she called “the deadly threat” facing the country’s Christian population.

Minaj referenced claims made by President Donald Trump, who has said that Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria and has directed the Pentagon to prepare for possible military involvement. Experts note that while some attacks in Nigeria target Christians, the violence affects people of all faiths and backgrounds.

The Trinidad-born rapper thanked Trump for his leadership and efforts to protect religious freedom, saying, “to defend Christians in Nigeria, to combat extremism and to bring a stop to violence against those who simply want to exercise their natural right to freedom of religion or belief.”

Minaj appeared on a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations alongside U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz and other faith leaders. The appearance followed her earlier social media comments responding to Trump’s posts about Nigeria, where she wrote, “No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion.”

Introducing Minaj, Waltz told the audience, “She steps onto this world stage not as a celebrity but as a witness … to spotlight Nigeria’s persecuted church” to her millions of followers. Minaj admitted she was nervous but said she felt it was important to speak up. “I will keep standing up in the face of injustice for anyone anywhere who is being persecuted for their beliefs,” she said.

She noted that the issue extends beyond Nigeria. “Sadly, this problem is not only a growing problem in Nigeria, but also in so many other countries around the world,” Minaj said. She stressed that her support was not meant to divide people, but to bring them together. “It is about uniting people,” she said, calling Nigeria “a beautiful nation with deep faith traditions” that she hopes to visit one day.

Minaj also referenced music in her speech, saying it has allowed her to connect with people worldwide. “Religious freedom means we all sing our faith regardless of who we are, where we live and what we believe,” she added.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!