Request for Private Protection for Christians in Nigeria
Eric Prince, who previously led Blackwater, has reached out to Pope Leo XIV, asking the pontiff for funding to provide private security for Christians facing violence in Nigeria.
In a response to a video where the pope was seen blessing a block of ice at the Vatican to raise awareness about climate change, Prince suggested he had a “better idea.” He asked the Pope directly, “Would you please fund my colleague to protect Christians in Nigeria from genocide by Muslims?”
This call for help comes in light of reports of escalating violence, including an incident last June where around 200 Christians were killed in one day as attackers shouted “Allahu Akbar” while attacking shelters for displaced individuals. Following this tragedy, the Pope prayed for “security, justice, and peace” in Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing violence facing rural Christian communities in places like Benue State.
Prince emphasized that Christians in Nigeria require more than humanitarian and diplomatic support; they need “an organized and professional defense.” According to him, the goal isn’t to incite war but to protect those persecuted for their beliefs.
He isn’t the only figure advocating for this cause. West Virginia Congressman Riley Moore has also reached out to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging him to have Nigeria categorized as a country of particular concern by the State Department, noting the severe violations of religious freedom there. Moore pointed out that Nigeria has emerged as one of the deadliest places for Christians worldwide, citing the kidnapping and murder of a priest on Ash Wednesday and the martyrdom of 54 Christians on Palm Sunday. Since 2009, over 50,000 Christians have reportedly been killed in the region.
Prince, a former Navy SEAL and military contractor known for his connection to President Donald Trump, gained prominence during the Iraq War and has recently been involved in operations supporting Haitian forces. Notably, during his presidency, Trump pardoned four former Blackwater contractors who were convicted for their crimes during the war.
