Minaj faces backlash over Nigeria remarks

RAPPER Nicki Minaj has found herself at the centre of a heated international debate after she thanked United States President Donald Trump for speaking out about what he described as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

- JONISAYI MAROMO

While her message of solidarity drew praise from conservative commentators in the United States, many Nigerians accused her of oversimplifying a deeply complex crisis - and told her to “sit this one out’.

On Saturday, Minaj shared a message on X (formerly Twitter) reacting to Trumps warning that the United States could cut aid or even consider military action if Nigeria failed to protect its Christian population.

She wrote: “Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude. We live in a country where we can freely worship God. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion. We don't have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.

“Numerous countries all around the world are being affected by this horror & it’s dangerous to pretend we don't notice. Thank you to The President & his team for taking this seriously. God bless every persecuted Christian. Let's remember to lift them up in prayer”