Nicki Minaj has thrown her support behind Donald Trump’s controversial claim that Christians in Nigeria are facing targeted attacks, adding her voice to a conversation that has already generated intense debate.
Speaking at an event in New York, the rap star said she believes Christians in Nigeria are being singled out. “Churches have been burned, families torn apart… simply because of how they pray,” she said, emphasizing that her stance is about “standing up in the face of injustice.”
Her comments come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with widespread insecurity. Armed groups and jihadist factions have carried out violent attacks across various parts of the country, affecting both Muslims and Christians. Analysts continue to stress that the violence targets people of all backgrounds — and isn’t limited to any single religious group.
In recent days, a church attack in Kwara State left two people dead and several others kidnapped. Videos believed to be from the church’s CCTV system show worshippers scrambling for safety as gunmen stormed the building. On the same day, authorities confirmed that a senior Nigerian army officer was killed by jihadist fighters after being ambushed in Borno State.
Earlier this month, Trump said he would send troops into Nigeria “guns a-blazing” if the government failed to stop attacks on Christians. Minaj thanked him for “prioritising this issue,” saying her message was about unity and protecting vulnerable communities.
Nigeria’s government, however, strongly disagrees with these claims. Officials insist the violence affects everyone—Muslims, Christians, and people of no faith—depending on where attacks occur. Independent monitors also say that many victims of jihadist groups in the country are Muslims living in regions where insurgents are most active.
Despite the political tension surrounding the issue, Minaj praised Nigeria as a “beautiful nation with deep faith traditions,” even giving a shout-out to her Nigerian fan base. Her remarks mark one of her most high-profile political interventions to date.
The debate comes against the backdrop of Nigeria’s long-running struggle with insecurity, including kidnappings, banditry, and resource conflicts. Many Nigerians continue to express frustration over what they see as a relentless cycle of violence affecting rural communities, schools, churches, and major travel routes.
Minaj, known for speaking openly on social and political topics, has previously shared her Christian background. In recent years, she has also drawn attention for various public controversies and long-running feuds within the music industry.