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President Bola Tinubu has expressed his condolences alongside global leaders over the death of Mario Bergoglio, also known as Pope Francis, the Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church, whom he regarded as a voice for the voiceless.
Tinubu's tribute followed shortly after the Vatican announced the pope's passing at the age of 88, due to complications from bilateral pneumonia, just a day after Easter celebrations.
In his condolence message, the president referred to the first American Catholic leader, whom he acknowledged as a humanitarian, as someone who brought a message of mercy to the world, encouraging us to recognize Christ in the marginalized, refugees, migrants, and those often overlooked.
Tinubu called for honoring the late Pope’s legacy through actions that uplift the underprivileged, heal communities, and uphold human dignity. He said, “Today, with a heavy heart, I stand with the Catholic faithful and Christians across the globe in mourning the loss of Pope Francis, a humble servant of God and relentless advocate for the impoverished."
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"He was a guiding light for millions, and his passing, occurring so soon after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, marks a sacred return to his Creator at a time filled with renewed hope for Christians,” he added.
The president highlighted Pope Francis’s commitment to justice, his call for nations to embrace the stranger, and his reminder that Earth is a gift to be safeguarded for future generations.
“He embodied the message of Christ: love for God and humanity in a time of division, forging connections among diverse faiths and between the affluent and the less fortunate,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Tinubu noted that the late pontiff was a vocal supporter of the developing world, where he often denounced economic inequality and continuously prayed for peace in unstable areas.
“His encyclicals were not only doctrinal but also timely and pertinent. Through his pastoral letters, he provided spiritual guidance and hope in a world that is becoming increasingly complicated. He offered a path of renewal for humanity through his words and actions,” he stated.
“In my 2025 Easter Message, I expressed gratitude for the recovering Pontiff and was delighted to see him deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica.”
“Sadly, the Lord summoned him just a day later, leading to the loss of the world’s most outspoken advocate for justice and action on climate change. May the Almighty, whom he served wholeheartedly, welcome him into His eternal embrace.”
“On behalf of the Nigerian government and its citizens, I convey my condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and all Christians.”
