Here’s a polished rewrite in clear, engaging British English:
Roman Catholic leader, Pope Leo XIV, has named Nigeria among the countries where Christians continue to face discrimination and persecution, placing it alongside Bangladesh, Mozambique, Sudan, and others.
The pontiff made the statement on Sunday, 16 November, through his official X account, voicing deep concern over the recurring attacks on Christian communities and places of worship. He urged the faithful to pray for peace and unity among all believers.
“I think especially of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, Sudan, and other countries from which we frequently hear of attacks on communities and places of worship. God is a merciful Father who desires peace among all His children!” he wrote.
Pope Leo XIV also offered prayers for families in Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, where recent massacres have claimed the lives of several civilians.
“Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good,” he added.
The Pope’s remarks mirror concerns earlier raised by former US President Donald Trump, who re-designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” (CPC) following reports of religious persecution.
However, the Nigerian Federal Government has dismissed this designation, insisting that the nation remains a secular state and is not involved in any form of genocide or targeting of any religious group.
