Best of the Spectator Holy Smoke: Trump highlights the persecution of Christians in Nigeria
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Nov 30, 2025 Fr. Benedict Keeley, a priest and founder of Nazarene.org, offers firsthand insight into the escalating persecution of Christians in Nigeria, noting a shocking number of abductions and killings. Freddy Gray, Deputy Editor at The Spectator, discusses why President Trump has suddenly prioritized this issue, shedding light on media reluctance to cover it. The pair also critique the Vatican’s tepid response and suggest bold policy measures, urging immediate action in the face of ongoing violence against Christians.
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Widespread, Longstanding Killings Linked To ISIS
- Nigeria has seen long-term, systematic violence against Christians for over a decade, with tens of thousands killed.
- Fr Benedict Keeley links the trend to the growth of ISIS affiliates across Africa and regional spillover effects.
High Fatality Counts Suggest Targeted Campaign
- Reported figures estimate jihadists killed 185,000 people in Nigeria since 2009, 125,000 of whom were Christians.
- Freddie Gray and Fr Benedict argue this scale constitutes a genocide-like targeting of Christians.
Media Bias Helps Silence The Story
- Western media and institutions often under-report or downplay the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
- Speakers suggest ideological bias and discomfort with discussing Christian victimhood contribute to this neglect.