Rapper Nicki Minaj has said she plans to do more to highlight the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

Speaking at an X Takeover event at Tesla’s Giga Texas facility in Austin, the global star explained her personal link to the country: her pastor is from Nigeria, and she has many Nigerian fans, known as her Barbz.

Minaj said she began seeing reports of violence against Christians in Nigeria and that they really disturbed her.

The 43-year-old spoke of “the brutality with which Christians are being treated there just for being Christian”.

The Trinidadian-born songwriter said she began asking why the issue was not getting more attention, suggesting people often stay silent on subjects that are not fashionable.

Minaj said she hopes more celebrities and influencers will join her in speaking out, and that she looks forward to doing more to help the cause.

A short clip of her remarks has been widely shared.