Again, Pope Leo XIV Decries Christian Prosecution in Nigeria
In his Angelus address on 16 November 2025, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt appeal on behalf of persecuted Christian communities, naming Nigeria, alongside Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan, as nations where believers face serious discrimination and threats. The pontiff expressed deep sorrow over attacks on places of worship and the targeting of Christian populations, calling on the global Catholic faithful to pray and act in solidarity.
The Pope lamented that in many parts of the world, Christians endure not only social marginalization but physical violence. He urged political and religious leaders to raise their voices against such injustices, stressing that freedom of religion must be upheld. He particularly highlighted the suffering of Christians when their communities are attacked or their ability to worship is compromised.Vatican News reported that Pope Leo XIV also publicly called for concrete measures to protect vulnerable religious minorities, including calls for international cooperation and legal protections. While praying for peace, he appealed to governments to enact and enforce policies that safeguard places of worship and promote interfaith dialogue to reduce tensions.
The mention of Nigeria by the Pope has sparked reactions both within and outside the country. In Nigeria, Christian leaders welcomed the pontiff’s words, viewing them as a moral boost and a reminder to the international community about the plight of Christians there. Observers say the Pope’s appeal could increase global awareness and push for stronger responses from political leaders and religious institutions to protect persecuted Christians.
