Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in Nigeria, stating that both Christians and Muslims have continued to lose their lives to extremist attacks and conflicts driven by economic and land-related tensions.
In a viral video recorded during an interview in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and published by the Catholic News Agency, the Pope said the violence in parts of Nigeria poses a danger to all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation.
“I think in Nigeria, in certain areas, there is certainly a danger for Christians, but for all people. Christians and Muslims have been slaughtered,” he said.
He explained that the insecurity is fuelled by a combination of terrorism, economic pressures, and struggles over land.
“There’s a question of terrorism. There’s a question that has to do a lot with economics… and control of the lands that they have,” the Pope added.
The pontiff urged the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to protect citizens and strengthen religious freedom.
“Unfortunately, many Christians have died, and I think it’s important to seek a way for the government, with all peoples, to promote authentic religious freedom,” he said.
His remarks come after controversy surrounding comments made last month by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
At the launch of the 2025 Religious Freedom Report by Aid to the Church in Need, Parolin described Nigeria’s violence as “not a religious conflict, but rather a social conflict… between herders and farmers.”
His position drew criticism from some groups, who accused him of aligning with “Nigerian government talking points.”
Parolin clarified that extremist groups also target Muslim communities, saying, “Many Muslims who come to Nigeria are victims of this intolerance… groups that make no distinctions to advance their goals.”
The Pope has repeatedly referenced Nigeria in recent messages about global attacks on Christian communities. In a post on X on Sunday, he said: “In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution… I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan… God desires peace among all His children!”
His latest comments follow renewed international scrutiny after U.S. President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged persecution of Christians — a claim the Nigerian government has dismissed as inaccurate.
A U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee hearing held on Thursday reviewed the designation, with lawmakers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders presenting sharply divided views on the issue.
