Pope Leo XIV Condemns Rising Religious Violence, Terror Attacks On Christians In Nigeria

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep concern over the growing wave of religiously motivated violence and terrorist attacks against Christians worldwide, with particular reference to Nigeria.

Speaking on Friday while addressing members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See at the Hall of Benediction, the Catholic leader called on governments across the world to uphold and protect the right to freedom of religion and worship for all citizens. He cited Nigeria, Bangladesh and other regions as places where Christians continue to face severe persecution.

The Pontiff recalled victims of violence in several conflict-prone areas, including Bangladesh, the Sahel region and Nigeria, as well as those killed during a major terrorist attack on Saint Elias parish in Damascus last June. He also mentioned the impact of jihadist violence in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique.

Pope Leo XIV described the persecution of Christians as one of the most widespread and overlooked human rights crises globally, noting that millions face discrimination, oppression and violence solely because of their faith. According to him, more than 380 million Christians worldwide are affected, representing about one in seven believers. He added that the situation worsened in 2025 due to persistent conflicts, authoritarian governance and religious extremism.

He lamented that in many societies, religious freedom is treated as a privilege rather than a fundamental human right. The Pope’s remarks come amid intensified international advocacy against the killing of Christians in Nigeria.

The issue has also drawn attention from U.S. officials, with President Donald Trump previously designating Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern and authorising strikes against terrorist groups, while warning of further action if attacks on Christians continue.