Pope Leo XIV has said that ongoing violence in Nigeria has claimed the lives of both Christians and Muslims, linking the crisis to extremist attacks as well as economic and land-related tensions.
The Pope made the remarks in a video recorded during an interview on Tuesday in Castel Gandolfo, Italy. The clip went viral on Friday and was reported by the Catholic News Agency.
Responding to a question about the safety of Christians in Nigeria and allegations of genocide, he said.
“In certain areas, there is certainly a danger for Christians, but for all people. Christians and Muslims have been slaughtered.”
He explained that the insecurity stems from a mix of terrorism, economic pressures, and land disputes.
“There’s a question of terrorism. There’s a question that has to do a lot with economics, if you will, and control of the lands that they have,” he added.
The Pope urged the Nigerian government to take stronger action to protect all communities.
“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.”
His comments follow earlier controversy surrounding Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who recently stated that Nigeria’s violence is “not a religious conflict, but a social conflict between herders and farmers.”
The remarks drew criticism from groups accusing him of echoing government narratives. Parolin also noted that extremist groups target Muslims as well.
Earlier this week, Pope Leo XIV again mentioned Nigeria in a message on global attacks against Christian communities, highlighting Bangladesh, Mozambique, and Sudan as well.
The Pope’s statements come as U.S. President Donald Trump reclassified Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged genocide against Christians, a claim the Nigerian government has strongly rejected.
The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa held a hearing on the redesignation on Thursday, featuring sharply divided testimonies from lawmakers, religious leaders, State Department officials, and other witnesses.
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