Nicki Minaj to Deliver Remarks at UN Event on Christian Persecution in Nigeria, U.S. Envoy Confirms

New York – November 17, 2025

Rap superstar Nicki Minaj is set to join U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz at a high-level event in New York this week to highlight the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

The unexpected alliance was reportedly arranged by Trump adviser Alex Bruesewitz, who is also scheduled to speak at the Tuesday event.

Ambassador Waltz, responding to a tweet by Journalist Eric Cortellessa, described Nicki 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.”

Ambassador Waltz further praised Nicki Minaj for “leveraging her massive platform to spotlight the atrocities against Christians in Nigeria, and I look forward to standing with her as we discuss the steps the President and his administration are taking to end the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters.”

Minaj retweeted Waltz’s post and adding that she is “so grateful to be entrusted with an opportunity of this magnitude. I do not take it for granted. It means more than you know.” She further pledged that “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.”

The event comes amid renewed international attention on religious violence in Nigeria.

Background:

President Donald Trump recently announced the redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” under U.S. law, citing the ongoing “Christian genocide” perpetrated by Fulani Islamist groups.

In response to Trump’s remarks, Minaj, who has spoken openly about her Christian faith, posted on X stating that “No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion,” adding that “numerous countries all around the world are being affected by this horror … God bless every persecuted Christian. Let’s remember to lift them up in prayer.”

Ambassador Waltz later extended a formal invitation to Minaj to visit the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York for a more in-depth conversation. In his post, he thanked her for using her massive platform to advocate for “Christians being persecuted in Nigeria” and urged action.

Minaj accepted, writing simply, “I’d be honored. Thank you, Ambassador.”

The development has sparked discussion across social and traditional media. Many have praised Minaj’s willingness to step into diplomatic and human rights arenas; although a few have raised concerns.

Supporters argue her participation could bring global attention to a humanitarian crisis, and possibly an end to the terror.

Critics, particularly the Nigerian government, argue the “genocide” framing is incorrect. In past responses, a spokesperson noted that both Christians and Muslims are victims in Nigeria’s ongoing security crises.

The event signals a rare convergence of celebrity influence and diplomatic activism, especially on religious freedom.

For Minaj, it marks a significant foray into global advocacy, aligning her public platform with U.S. foreign policy interests.

For U.S. foreign policy establishment, the presence of a high-profile cultural figure adds visibility and media weight to their drive to end religious persecution around the world.

The event is expected to take place on Tuesday at the U.S. Embassy to the United Nations in New York.

Waltz and Minaj will deliver remarks, and Trump aide Alex Bruesewitz is also slated to speak.

The gathering is expected to include diplomats, faith leaders, and advocates, focusing on the U.S. response to religious violence in Nigeria and efforts to protect persecuted Christians.