American music star Nicki Minaj has opened up on her decision to speak publicly about alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria, saying her connection to the country and reports of violence against worshippers compelled her to act.
The rapper shared her views during an unexpected appearance at AmericaFest on Sunday, where she responded to a question from Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Explaining her motivation, Minaj said Nigeria holds a special place in her heart due to close personal relationships, including her Nigerian pastor and a large Nigerian fan base.
According to her, hearing reports of worshippers being attacked, abducted, and killed because of their faith was deeply troubling and could not be ignored.
“Nigeria is somewhere I’ve always loved,” she said. “My pastor is Nigerian, and so many of my supporters are Nigerians. When you hear that people are being kidnapped in church or harmed simply because of their religion, that should outrage anyone.”
She stressed that she would no longer remain silent, adding that Christians everywhere deserve to freely practise their faith without fear.
“We are done being intimidated. We will speak up and stand for Christians wherever they are around the world,” Minaj stated.
The rapper also spoke broadly about religious freedom, noting that many people fail to appreciate the privilege of worshipping openly.
“There are people in this world right now who have to hide just to pray,” she said. “When we gather freely to worship, we should remember those who can’t and lift them up in prayer.”
Minaj has previously expressed concerns about Nigeria. In October, she reposted a message from former U.S. President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform, where he claimed Christianity was under serious threat in Nigeria.
Reacting to the post the following day, Minaj wrote that it reminded her to be thankful for the freedom of worship enjoyed in the United States, while stressing that no religious group should face persecution.
PUNCH Online reports that she also drew attention last month for raising similar concerns during a discussion involving U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz.
During the AmericaFest session, Minaj praised Trump and Vice President JD Vance, saying they understand the concerns of everyday Americans. She also argued that Christians face various forms of discrimination even within the United States and that leadership plays a key role in protecting religious liberties.
“Christians have faced challenges here at home too,” she said. “When leaders ignore that reality, it becomes a serious problem.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Nigeria has repeatedly dismissed claims that Christians are being systematically targeted, describing such allegations as inaccurate.
Authorities maintain that insecurity in the country affects citizens across religious lines and insist there is no government-sponsored campaign against any faith.
