Nicki Minaj has clarified her recent advocacy concerning reports of religion-based violence in Nigeria, citing personal connections and a commitment to religious freedom as her primary motivations.
The Trinidadian-American rapper has used her social media platforms in recent weeks to highlight what she describes as the “targeted persecution of Christians in Nigeria,” alleging they are “being targeted, driven from their homes and killed”.
While her claims have been contested — with publications like Rolling Stone arguing that allegations of a systematic genocide are not supported by data and referencing an Al Jazeera report — Minaj’s stance has resonated with many Nigerians.
Supporters have criticized media outlets for what they see as an attempt to minimize a serious humanitarian crisis.
In an interview with the wife of late Charlie Kirk at AmericaFest on Sunday, Minaj said her comments were driven by her personal ties to Nigeria.
The rapper revealed that her pastor is Nigerian and that she has many Nigerian fans.
She said her comments stem from a fundamental concern for religious liberty. She contrasted the freedom of worship in the United States with the dangers reported elsewhere.
“That brings me back to our great president, this administration, and our great country that we often take for granted. Right now, in this world, there are people who cannot worship God as they please, where they please. We take it for granted because we have it. We cannot even imagine not having that right,” she said.
“But every time we pray and fellowship, we have to remember there are people in this world hiding to pray and fellowship, and we have to pray for them.
“First of all, Nigeria is a place I have always loved. Someone very dear to me, my pastor, is Nigerian. I have lots of Nigerian fans.”
The rapper expressed particular outrage over accounts of violence in places of worship.
“Hearing that people are being kidnapped while they are in church, that people are being killedand brutalised all because of their religion should spark outrage in great America, and that is what it did,” she said.
“And again, we are not backing down anymore. We are not going to be silenced by bullies anymore.”
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