Pope Leo XIV has identified Nigeria as one of several countries where Christians continue to face severe persecution, naming it alongside Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan.
The Catholic Pontiff made the statement on Sunday via his official X account, expressing deep concern over escalating attacks on Christian communities and worship centres around the world. He urged global solidarity, prayers, and a renewed commitment to peace among all believers.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution. I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship. God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children!” the Pope wrote.
He also extended prayers to the people of Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where recent massacres have claimed several civilian lives.
“Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he added.
Global Reactions and U.S. Policy Pressure
The Pope’s remarks come at a time when international attention is heavily focused on Nigeria’s security challenges. On October 31, U.S. President Donald Trump designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing alleged Christian genocide. Trump warned that the U.S. could deploy troops to “wipe out the jihadists” if the Nigerian government fails to curb the killings.
The Federal Government has repeatedly dismissed the genocide claims as exaggerated, misleading, and inconsistent with the complex nature of Nigeria’s security issues.
However, on Sunday, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore countered President Bola Tinubu’s assurances that Nigeria does not support religious persecution, insisting that the reality on ground paints a different picture.
Hobnob News reports that the ongoing debate continues to shape global perception of Nigeria’s handling of religious and security-related tensions.
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