Nicki Minaj Speaks Out for Persecuted Christians in Nigeria

American rapper Nicki Minaj has shared that her ties to Nigeria through her pastor and reports of violence against Christians pushed her to speak out about their persecution in the country.

Minaj made these comments during an X Takeover event at Tesla’s Giga Texas facility in Austin, Texas. A video of her speech became popular online on Monday.

The 43-year-old artist said the stories of violence against Christians, especially in Nigeria, really upset her.

“For Nigeria personally, my pastor is from Nigeria, so I have a link to Nigeria because of him. And of course, I have a lot of Nigerian barbs, but what I started seeing was the brutality with which Christians are being treated there just for being Christian,” Minaj said.

More Advocacy

The rapper explained that her advocacy comes from worries about religious freedom and the safety of Christian groups.

Minaj urged other entertainers and influencers to speak out and help raise awareness about what she described as the brutal treatment of Christians in Nigeria.

The “Super Bass” star added that many public figures shy away from tough or political topics because they do not find those discussions trendy.

She pointed out, “And I thought, why isn’t anyone making a big deal out of this, you know? And sometimes when things aren’t cool to talk about, people don’t talk about it.

“So right now, actually, I’m hoping that more celebrities or people, influencers, I’m hoping that they come aboard the train to start speaking out about what’s happening to Christians in Nigeria. And I look forward to doing more to help in that way, in that cause.”

Backstory

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Minaj has stepped up her advocacy against religious persecution since the US government named Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern in November 2025 because of claims of Christian genocide.

Since then, the rapper has used her social media to call for an end to the persecution of Christians, saying they deserve the right to worship freely everywhere.

The mother of one also called for an end to violence around the world.

“Shed not their blood anymore. All Nations hear this. Shed not their blood; you have shed the blood of those that called you my name. #FreeChristians,” she wrote.

In November 2025, US President Donald Trump declared Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern due to claims of Christian genocide, warning of military action if the killings did not stop.