Pope Leo XIV has voiced deep concern over the ongoing violence in Nigeria, emphasizing that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of slaughter amid crises driven by terrorism, economic struggles, and disputes over land.
In a video interview recorded on Tuesday at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and widely shared online on Friday, the Pope addressed the dangers faced by Christians in Nigeria, stating, “In certain areas, there is certainly a danger for Christians, but for all people. Christians and Muslims have been slaughtered.”
He highlighted terrorism, economic issues, and land control as key factors fueling the unrest.
The Pope urged Nigerian authorities to take stronger action to protect lives and promote genuine religious freedom.
“Many Christians have died, and I think it’s important for the government, with all peoples, to seek a way to promote authentic religious freedom,” he said.
Meanwhile, his remarks also come amid growing global attention on Nigeria’s security challenges and religious tensions.
The comments follow a controversy last month involving Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who described Nigeria’s violence as a “social conflict” rather than a religious one, citing disputes between herders and farmers.
Parolin’s stance drew criticism from groups accusing him of downplaying the religious dimensions of the crisis. However, he also acknowledged that extremist violence has affected Muslims, saying, “Many Muslims… are victims of this intolerance… groups that make no distinctions to advance their goals.”
On Sunday, the Pope reiterated his concerns about global attacks on Christian communities, including those in Nigeria, posting on X: “In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution… I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan… God desires peace among all His children!”
His comments align with renewed debates in the United States, where President Donald Trump recently redesignated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over allegations of Christian genocide.
These claims, however, have been dismissed by the Nigerian government as inaccurate, fueling sharp divisions during a recent hearing in the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa.
