Nicki Minaj - the US-based, multi-million-selling Trinidadian rapper - has publicly backed President Donald Trump's allegations that Christians face persecution in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted, Minaj said on Tuesday at a UN event organised by the US, adding that Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart … simply because of how they pray.
This support coincided with Trump's threats to intervene militarily if the Nigerian government continues to allow the killing of Christians. However, the Nigerian presidency claims that the rampant violence affects all citizens, regardless of their background or beliefs.
During her speech, Minaj, whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, stated that advocating for the protection of Christians in Nigeria is about uniting humanity and standing up against injustice. She expressed gratitude to Trump for prioritizing this issue and lauded Nigeria for its rich cultural and faith traditions.
US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, also praised Minaj for using her platform to raise awareness of these issues. Right-wing figures in the US have long contended that Islamist militants are targeting Christians in Nigeria, though some analysts argue that many conflicts are driven by resource scarcity and ethnic tensions rather than solely religious motives.
Despite the Nigerian government's acknowledgment of violence, they contest claims that it is exclusively aimed at Christians, highlighting that terrorists attack individuals regardless of their faith as part of their ideology. In addressing the situation, Minaj reiterated the importance of her fanbase, known as the 'Barbz', in the fight against injustice, stating, We will never stand down in the face of injustice. We've been given our influence by God. There must be a bigger purpose.
Her appearance at the UN marks a significant political engagement for Minaj, especially considering her history of controversial statements regarding public health and ongoing feuds with fellow artists.
