American rapper Nicki Minaj delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations in New York on Tuesday, November 18, highlighting the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Speaking alongside U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz, Minaj urged the international community to take urgent action to protect religious minorities.
Dressed in black for the event, Minaj acknowledged her nervousness before emphasizing the humanitarian crisis facing Nigerian Christians. She detailed how many have been displaced from their homes, churches destroyed, and families left in fear, solely because of their faith.
The rapper stressed that her advocacy is about defending human rights and confronting injustice, not taking political sides. “This is not about division or choosing sides,” she said. “It is about standing up in the face of injustice and uniting humanity.” She further noted that similar threats to religious freedom exist in multiple countries, making global attention crucial.
Minaj reflected on her international experience as a musician, explaining that music has shown her how faith and culture connect people across the globe. “Religious freedom allows everyone to practice their beliefs openly, regardless of where they live or what language they speak,” she said.
She also acknowledged her fanbase, “The Barbz,” thanking them for their support and highlighting the engagement of her Nigerian fans.
Concluding her address, Minaj reiterated her commitment to human rights and religious freedom: “I will continue to stand for these principles throughout my life. This is what I have always stood for, and I will not waver.”