RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
American rapper Nicki Minaj has revealed that her Nigerian pastor influenced her decision to speak publicly about reports of attacks against Christians in Nigeria.
The award-winning artiste made the disclosure during an X Takeover event at Tesla’s Giga Texas facility in Austin, where she discussed her personal connection to Nigeria and her concerns about religiously motivated violence.
Minaj explained that her relationship with her Nigerian pastor, alongside the support she receives from Nigerian fans, had strengthened her interest in developments affecting the country.
She said reports of violence against Christian communities prompted her to question why more internationally recognised personalities were not drawing attention to the issue.
According to the rapper, her pastor’s Nigerian background gave her a personal connection to the country, while her Nigerian supporters, popularly known as Barbz, had further deepened that relationship.
Minaj expressed concern about what she described as the treatment of Christians in Nigeria, suggesting that some celebrities might be reluctant to address sensitive subjects because of potential controversy.
She argued that public figures with large audiences could help increase international awareness of reported attacks and encourage greater attention to the safety of affected communities.
The rapper also expressed hope that more entertainers, influencers and other prominent personalities would participate in discussions about the situation.
She indicated her willingness to remain involved in efforts aimed at drawing attention to the reported violence and supporting affected Christian communities.
Nigeria has experienced recurring attacks involving armed groups, insurgents and communal conflicts in different parts of the country. While some incidents have raised concerns about religious persecution, the causes and circumstances of individual attacks vary, making it important to distinguish religiously motivated violence from other forms of insecurity.
Minaj’s remarks reflect her stated intention to use her international platform to highlight the concerns of Christian communities and encourage greater public engagement with the issue.
