Nicki Minaj sparked controversy on Tuesday after addressing the United Nations Headquarters with claims of widespread persecution of Christians in Nigeria — assertions experts say are misleading.
During her four-minute remarks, Minaj thanked former U.S. President Donald Trump for what she described as his leadership on the issue. “I would like to thank President Trump for prioritizing this issue and for his leadership on the global stage in calling for urgent action to defend Christians in Nigeria,” she said.
She added: “Today, faith is under attack in way too many places in Nigeria. Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes, and killed. Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart, and entire communities live in fear constantly simply because of how they pray.”
Her speech followed comments by UN Ambassador Mike Waltz, who also claimed Christians in Nigeria faced escalating persecution. Waltz thanked Minaj for using the UN platform to “demand action” on their behalf.
Minaj’s appearance at the UN had been earlier reported by TIME journalist Eric Cortellessa, who revealed that Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz facilitated her invitation. The speech preceded a panel discussion titled “Combating Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria.”
The rapper’s remarks came weeks after she echoed similar narratives online, including praise for a Trump Truth Social post alleging Christianity was under an “existential threat” in Nigeria. In November, she also reposted a pro-MAGA video from the White House’s X account featuring her hit “Beez In the Trap,” as well as a xenophobic and transphobic clip highlighting Trump’s record — actions that cost her over 100,000 followers.
Minaj’s comments have reignited debate about the spread of exaggerated or inaccurate claims regarding religious violence in Nigeria, especially when amplified by high-profile international figures.
