Pope Leo has condemned the rising attacks and alleged killing of Christians in Nigeria, saying that Nigeria has become one of the worst-hit countries in terms of attacks and killing of Christians.
Pope Leo expressed concerns over what many global rights groups have described as an ongoing pattern of deadly persecution and alleged genocide against Christian communities in Nigeria.
He warned that violence against religious minorities is worsening in several regions around the world.
In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, the pontiff lamented that Christian populations continue to face “discrimination and persecution” in multiple countries.
“In various parts of the world, Christians suffer discrimination and persecution,” Pope Leo wrote.
He specifically mentioned Nigeria among countries where recurrent attacks on churches and Christian settlements have resulted in widespread fear, displacement, and mass casualties.
“I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship,” he said.
The Pope also expressed sorrow over the recent massacre of civilians in Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, noting that such tragedies reflect a broader trend of religiously targeted violence across the continent.
“God is a merciful father who desires peace among all His children. I accompany in prayer the families of Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where in recent days there has been a massacre of civilians,” he stated.
He urged global leaders, religious communities, and citizens to push for an immediate halt to hostilities and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence.
“Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” Pope Leo added.
His remarks come amid international calls for decisive action to protect vulnerable Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and northern regions, where attacks linked to extremist groups and armed militias have intensified and sustained for years.