Nicki Minaj is speaking out after a series of political developments thrust her into an unexpected spotlight on international human rights.
On Sunday, the rapper responded to praise from Ambassador Mike Waltz after reports surfaced that the two would deliver remarks this week regarding the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
In a post on X, Waltz described Minaj as “not only arguably the greatest female recording artist, but also a principled individual who refuses to remain silent in the face of injustice.” Walz was writing in a response to a tweet confirming that he and Minaj will speak on the persecution of Christians in Nigeria later in the week.
“Ambassador, I am so grateful to be entrusted with an opportunity of this magnitude,” Minaj tweeted in response to Waltz. “I do not take it for granted. It means more than you know. The Barbz & I will never stand down in the face of injustice. We’ve been given our influence by God. There must be a bigger purpose.”
Earlier in the day, journalist Eric Cortellessa reported that Waltz and Minaj will jointly deliver remarks early this week on the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. The collaboration was arranged by Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz, who is also scheduled to speak at the event.
The upcoming appearance follows Minaj’s recent public support Trump after he announced plans to place Nigeria on the State Department’s “Countries of Particular Concern” list, citing claims of anti-Christian violence.
“Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria,” Trump said on Halloween, alleging that “thousands” of Christians were being killed by “radical Islamists.” The Nigerian government denied the allegations, and experts have said Trump’s claims oversimplify a conflict driven by political, ethnic, and economic factors rather than religion alone.
Minaj thanked Trump at the time, writing that she felt a “deep sense of gratitude” after reading his message.
“We live in a country where we can freely worship God. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion,” she wrote, adding that people do not need to share the same beliefs to respect one another. She also urged fans to pray for persecuted Christians around the world.
Moments later, Minaj replied to a Muslim fan, stressing that “faith should unite, not divide us,” and emphasizing that “there are extremists in every religion.” She also extended love to her Muslim supporters.