New York, November 19, 2025
Global music icon Nicki Minaj addressed the United Nations during a U.S.-hosted event, drawing international attention to reports of religious persecution in Nigeria. Speaking alongside U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz, Minaj called for urgent action to protect Christian communities reportedly targeted by violence.
“Christians in Nigeria are being targeted, driven from their homes, and killed. Churches have been burned, and families are living in constant fear. Sadly, this problem is not just local — it demands urgent action,” Minaj told the assembled delegates.
The rapper, known for her global influence, emphasized that her advocacy transcends politics:
“Protecting Christians in Nigeria is not about taking sides or dividing people. It is about uniting humanity. We’ve been given our influence by God. There must be a bigger purpose.”
Minaj described Nigeria as a “beautiful nation with deep faith traditions” and expressed solidarity with its people, urging the international community to respond swiftly. She also thanked former U.S. President Donald Trump for highlighting the issue during his administration, noting that awareness and political will are critical for protecting vulnerable communities.
Security analysts and human-rights observers have noted that celebrity engagement at high-profile forums like the UN can amplify awareness of human-rights violations, drawing attention from both governments and global media. Minaj’s speech is being seen as part of a broader trend of public figures leveraging their platforms to spotlight pressing humanitarian concerns.
“We cannot remain silent while people suffer because of their beliefs. Nigeria’s children, families, and communities deserve protection, and we must act together,” Minaj concluded.
The event has sparked widespread discussion online, with supporters praising her courage and commitment to human rights, while critics caution that celebrity interventions must be paired with sustained policy action to effect real change.
References
- Rapper Nicki Minaj calls for protections for Christians in Nigeria at UN event. AP News
- Nicki Minaj Thanks Trump, Says ‘Faith Is Under Attack’ in UN Speech About Religious Violence in Nigeria. People
- Nicki Minaj speaks out on ‘targeted’ Nigerian Christians being ‘driven from their homes’ at UN. New York Post
- Nicki Minaj praises Trump’s response to Nigeria. YouTube