In an accompanying trailer, the chart-topping hip hop star said: “I am Nicki Minaj and I pledge allegiance to the drag. Show up and make herstory. Boom.”
Queens to feature on the new season include New York’s Sherry Pie, Kansas City’s Widow Von’du and Missouri’s Crystal Methyd.
Drag Race is no stranger to welcoming a global star to help kick off a new season.
Miley Cyrus, Christina Aguilera and Lady Gaga have all helped raise the curtain in recent years.
RuPaul’s Drag Race season 12 will air in the US on February 28. A UK date has not yet been announced.
Hip hop superstar unveiled as guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race season 12