In grieving for His Holiness Pope Francis, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined world leaders and Christians.
The Pope passed away one day after bestowing his Easter Sunday benediction, and the President noted in a statement that it represents “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”
The statement claimed that Pope Francis, who took office in 2013, was generally seen as a reformer and a champion for the weak.
In praising the Pontiff’s unwavering moral leadership, Tinubu recalled how he “enjoyed the world stage with a message of mercy, calling us to see the face of Christ in the marginalized, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten.”
In addition to praising the Pope’s steadfast support of justice, environmental conservation, and interfaith harmony, the President stated that “he reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations, challenged the powerful to act with justice, and called nations to welcome the stranger.”
“He was a peacemaker who embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity,” he stated of Pope Francis. Tinubu said that “he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor,” praising the late Pope’s efforts to heal divisions during a time of universal war and inequity.
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In highlighting the Pope’s focus on developing countries, the Nigerian leader recognized the Vatican’s ongoing concern for areas that are experiencing economic injustice and instability. According to Tinubu, “he was a steadfast advocate for the developing world.” Tours of Nigerian cultures
Tinubu also praised the Pope’s pastoral letters and encyclicals, calling them “doctrinal and seminal… timely and relevant,” providing “spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world’s circumstances.”
at his Easter message, Tinubu stated that he was thankful for the Pope’s good health and that he had observed “his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.” The President stated, “Sadly, the Lord called him home the next day, causing the world to lose its most resolute voice for justice and climate change action.”
The Nigerian President called on the populace to take action in remembrance of the late Pope. “We should honor him not just with words but also with deeds: by helping those in need, restoring our communities, and upholding everyone’s dignity.”
“I offer condolences to the Catholic Church, the international Catholic community, and the Christian faithful on behalf of the Nigerian government and people.
Additionally, the message said, “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”
