Pope Leo XIV Lists Nigeria Among Nations Where Christians Face Persecution, Calls for Peace and Solidarity

Pope Leo XIV has named Nigeria among nations where Christians are persecuted, expressing deep concern over frequent attacks on Christian communities and places of worship. The pontiff made an official statement urging believers worldwide to pray for peace and show solidarity with Nigeria, alongside countries like Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan.

The Pope also called for prayers for the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in Kivu following recent massacres. The statement emphasizes the need for unity and moral support for the Nigerian Church amidst ongoing insecurity and violence against Christians.

This comes after a report by US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a country of particular concern due to the surge in killings of Christians by radical Islamist groups.