VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo has raised fresh alarm over what he described as worsening violence, discrimination, and persecution targeting Christian communities in several countries, including Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, Bangladesh and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The warning comes as the United States recently designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern over allegations of widespread attacks on Christian populations. Nigeria has faced mounting criticism from U.S. officials and rights groups for what they call inadequate protection of Christian-majority communities.
Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump cautioned that Nigeria could face “serious diplomatic and military consequences” if the violence persists, directing the U.S. Department of War to prepare for possible action. He said any intervention would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.”
In a post on his official X account, the Pope condemned repeated attacks on Christians and places of worship, urging coordinated global efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution,” he wrote. “I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship.”
Pope Leo also offered prayers for victims of recent violence, particularly in the Kivu region of the DRC, where dozens of civilians were killed in recent days.
“God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children,” he said. “I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians. Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good.”
Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers have launched a sweeping investigation into alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria, intensifying international scrutiny.
In New York, American rapper Onika Maraj-Petty, popularly known as Nicki Minaj, is expected to address a United Nations event today on reported jihadist attacks against Christians in Nigeria. She will appear alongside U.S. Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz and Alex Bruesewitz, a senior adviser to President Trump.
The development was first disclosed by Time magazine correspondent Eric Cortellessa on Sunday.
Confirming the report, Waltz praised Minaj, calling her “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist, but also a principled individual who refused to remain silent in the face of injustice.” He said he appreciated her decision to use her platform to highlight “atrocities against Christians in Nigeria.”
Minaj, responding on X, thanked organizers for the opportunity and said she did not take the responsibility lightly. She said she would “never stand down in the face of injustice,” adding that her influence “carries a greater purpose.”
The UN event follows Trump’s declaration that a “Christian genocide” is underway in Nigeria and his announcement that the country would be designated a Country of Particular Concern. He also called on Congress to take urgent action. Minaj later publicly commended Trump for speaking out.
Nigeria’s federal government has rejected the allegations, insisting that ongoing insecurity stems from criminal and extremist activities unconnected to religious persecution. Despite this position, U.S. officials have continued to voice concern over the situation.
