The head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, has drawn international attention to the plight of Christians in Nigeria and other high-risk countries, citing a rise in violence and attacks on worshippers.
In a message posted on X, he listed Nigeria alongside Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan as nations where believers face frequent killings, abductions, and assaults on places of worship.
The Pope’s remarks underscore growing international concern over persistent insecurity affecting Christian communities, particularly in northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, where extremist groups, bandits, and armed militias have repeatedly targeted villages and churches.
He emphasized that God desires peace among all people and encouraged Christians in Nigeria and worldwide to remain steadfast in faith and resilient in the face of ongoing threats.
Pope Leo XIV also extended his prayers to families in Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where a recent massacre claimed numerous civilian lives. He called on global leaders to prioritize the protection of vulnerable communities and stressed that unity, compassion, and justice are essential for lasting peace.
The Pope appealed for an end to all forms of violence and urged Christians to work together for the common good, highlighting that international solidarity and local resilience are critical to safeguarding faith communities.
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