My Pastor Is Nigerian, That’s Why I Spoke On Christian Persecution – Nicki Minaj

American rapper Nicki Minaj has revealed that her Nigerian pastor influenced her decision to speak publicly about alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria, urging more celebrities and social media influencers to draw attention to the issue.

Minaj made the disclosure during an X Takeover event at Tesla’s Giga Texas facility in Austin, Texas, on Saturday, where she discussed her personal connection to Nigeria and called for greater public awareness of attacks on Christians.

The rapper said reports of violence against Christians, particularly in Nigeria, had deeply troubled her and questioned why the issue was not attracting more attention from prominent public figures.

“For Nigeria personally, my pastor is from Nigeria, so I have a link to Nigeria because of him. And of course, I have a lot of Nigerian barbs, but what I started seeing was the brutality with which Christians are being treated there just for being Christian,” she said.

Minaj, who calls her fans “Barbz”, said she was concerned that some people might avoid speaking about the issue because it was considered uncomfortable or unpopular.

“And I thought, why isn’t anyone making a big deal out of this, you know? And sometimes when things aren’t cool to talk about, people don’t talk about it,” she added.

She expressed hope that more entertainers, influencers and other public figures would use their platforms to raise awareness about the reported treatment of Christians in Nigeria.

“So right now, actually, I’m hoping that more celebrities or people, influencers, I’m hoping that they come aboard the train to start speaking out about what’s happening to Christians in Nigeria. And I look forward to doing more to help in that way, in that cause,” Minaj said.

The rapper has become one of the prominent foreign entertainers speaking publicly about alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria. Her latest comments highlight the personal connection she says has shaped her interest in the issue.