On Tuesday, Nicki Minaj strolled into the United Nations and made history! At 42, the rap superstar became the first female rapper ever to take the podium at the UN, and she used this incredible opportunity to shine a light on the pressing issue of persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
This was definitely a departure from her usual headlines, yet it perfectly aligns with Nicki’s fearless personality. Standing before a crowd of diplomats and global leaders at an event hosted by the U.S. Embassy, she delivered her message with poise and clarity. “In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted,” she asserted. “Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart… simply because of how they pray.”
You could feel a hush fall over the room. And you know what? Social media lit up, especially on Black Twitter.
Nicki, whose full name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, reminded everyone that she’s always been vocal about her faith. This wasn’t just a publicity stunt for her; it was deeply personal. “This is not about taking sides or dividing people,” she emphasized. “It’s about uniting humanity. It’s about standing up in the face of injustice.”
To add to the surprise, she even thanked former President Donald Trump for “prioritizing this issue and for his leadership.” That remark sent shockwaves through social media, leaving many Barbz a bit puzzled, impressed, and divided—all at once. Who would have thought we’d see Nicki discussing foreign policy at the UN? That definitely wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card for 2025!
Trump has often claimed that Christianity faces an “existential threat” in Nigeria, even directing the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action. But experts say the reality is more complex. Violence in Nigeria doesn’t solely target Christians. It has been a long-standing issue involving widespread insecurity, where kidnappings, extremist attacks, and clashes between armed groups affect everyone, including Christians, Muslims, and non-believers alike.
Just this week, a church was attacked, resulting in two deaths, while 25 Muslim schoolgirls were kidnapped elsewhere. Thankfully, two managed to escape, but a Muslim teacher and a security guard lost their lives.
In response to Nicki and Trump’s comments, Nigeria’s government pushed back, labeling their statements as “a gross misrepresentation of reality.” Officials insisted that extremist groups attack anyone who opposes their violent ideology, regardless of faith.
Nicki Minaj made it clear that her goal was to raise awareness, not to rewrite Nigeria’s political narrative. “This is about what I’ve always stood for,” she asserted, referring to her long-standing commitment to protect the vulnerable and speak out against injustice.
