Nicki Minaj: How My Nigerian Pastor Inspired Me to Speak Out on Christian Persecution

According to a report by the official Facebook page of TheCable Nigeria on Monday, October 12, 2026, American rapper Nicki Minaj has explained that her Nigerian pastor and strong connection with Nigerian fans influenced her decision to speak out about the alleged persecution of Christians in the country.

The award-winning artiste said Nigeria had become personally important to her because of her pastor, who is from the country, as well as the large number of Nigerian fans in her global fan base.

Minaj said reports about the treatment of Christians because of their faith disturbed her and made her question why the issue was not receiving enough international attention.

“My pastor is from Nigeria, so I have a link to Nigeria because of him, and I have a lot of Nigerian Barbz. But what I started seeing was the brutality with which Christians are being treated there just for being Christian, and I thought, why is no one making a big deal out of it?” she said.

The rapper made the remarks while discussing her advocacy for Christians facing religious persecution.

She urged celebrities, influencers and other public figures to use their platforms to draw attention to violence against worshippers and communities affected by insecurity.

Minaj’s comments have generated reactions among Nigerians, particularly her fans, popularly known as the Barbz.

Many welcomed her decision to speak about the issue, while others called for balanced reporting and greater attention to the complex security challenges affecting communities across the country.

The international star has continued to use her influence to demand freedom of worship and protection for Christians facing violence because of their religion.

ChilaterainNewsWorldWide feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com