Dare Babalola
The head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City, Pope Leo XIV, has expressed deep concern over the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, citing it as one of the countries where believers face significant discrimination and violence.
In a statement via X on Sunday, the Pope lamented the frequent attacks on Christian communities and places of worship, urging prayers for peace and solidarity among all believers.
The Pope’s remarks come amid growing concerns over extremist attacks, communal tensions, and rising insecurity affecting religious groups across Africa and Asia.
He specifically mentioned Nigeria, Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan as hotspots where Christians are suffering.
He extended prayers to families in Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, following a recent massacre of civilians in the area.
The pope urged an end to violence and called on believers to unite in promoting peace and the common good.
He wrote, “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! I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians. Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good.”
This development follows US President Donald Trump’s re-designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” due to reports of religious persecution.
However, the Nigerian government has rejected this classification, affirming that the country remains secular.
