Pope Leo XIV has publicly listed Nigeria among a number of countries where Christians endure discrimination, persecution, and violence. During his Sunday Angelus address, he expressed deep concern for frequent attacks on Christian communities and places of worship.
He highlighted nations including Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Sudan, calling on the faithful to unite in prayer for peace and reconciliation. The pontiff emphasized the need for global solidarity with Christians who face threats and urged efforts to promote justice, security, and community protection.
The Pope also mentioned the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in Kivu, where recent massacres have affected Christian populations. He appealed for unity, reconciliation, and sustained support for those impacted by violence.
Responses and Implications
- Church leaders in Nigeria welcomed Pope Leo’s message, with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) joining in a day of prayer and fasting for victims of violence.
- His remarks underscore the moral responsibility of the international community to recognize and address the plight of persecuted Christians.
- Analysts note that this global attention may encourage stronger advocacy and protection measures for vulnerable communities in Nigeria and beyond.
References
- https://vanguardngr.com/2025/11/pope-leo-lists-nigeria-among-countries-where-christians-face-persecution/
- https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-11/pope-leo-xiv-angelus-appeal-against-persecution-of-christians.html
- https://angelusnews.com/news/vatican/angelus-violence-christians/
- https://www.aciafrica.org/news/17179/in-solidarity-with-pope-leo-xiv-catholic-bishops-in-nigeria-cameroon-call-for-prayer-fasting-for-victims-of-violence
- https://www.romereports.com/en/2025/06/16/pope-leo-xiv-condemns-the-massacre-of-civilians-at-a-catholic-mission-in-nigeria/
