American rapper Onika Maraj-Petty, popularly known as Nicki Minaj, has urged the international community to take decisive action to stop growing attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
Minaj made the appeal on Tuesday while speaking at a United Nations forum in New York.
Her remarks followed earlier confirmation that she would address the event alongside the United States ambassador to the UN, Michael Waltz.
In her speech, streamed on the official YouTube channel of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, Minaj condemned what she described as widespread and deeply troubling assaults on Christian communities across several parts of Nigeria.
“Christians in Nigeria are being targeted, driven from their homes, and killed in far too many areas,” she said.
She highlighted the severe impact of the unrest, pointing out that families have been displaced, churches destroyed, and entire communities forced to live in fear due solely to their religious identity.
Minaj stressed that the crisis was not unique to Nigeria, noting that religious persecution is increasing in many countries.
She called on world leaders, humanitarian organisations, and advocates of religious freedom to respond with urgency.
The rapper also clarified that speaking up for Christians should not be interpreted as creating division, saying it is instead an effort to defend human dignity and promote unity.
Describing Nigeria as a country rich in diverse faith traditions, Minaj expressed excitement about connecting with her Nigerian fanbase, affectionately known as the “Barbz.”
Addressing attacks on places of worship, she said the destruction of any religious site whether a church or mosque should concern everyone.
She added that such incidents strike at the heart of the UN’s mission to uphold peace and security.
Minaj also commended peace advocates, interfaith leaders, and activists who continue to promote dialogue and cooperation across religious divides.
She praised their work in protecting the freedom of worship and in ensuring communities can live without fear.
“I hope it will encourage deepened solidarity for us to urgently work together to ensure every person can enjoy the right to believe, to worship, and to live in peace… Barbz,” she said.
The UN event came shortly after former U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. might consider military intervention against Islamist terrorists in Nigeria if attacks on Christians continue.
He also designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” a classification the Nigerian government has since rejected.