President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected head of the Roman Catholic Church, expressing not only Nigeria’s joy at his emergence but also a renewed hope for deeper collaboration between Nigeria and the Vatican.
The President’s statement, issued Thursday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, described the selection of Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—as a “historic moment” and an opportunity to build on shared values of peace, compassion, and service to humanity.
“The President felicitates the Conclave for electing the American Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome,” the statement read. “He rejoices with the leadership and congregants of the Catholic Church in Nigeria on the historic election of the new Pontiff, whose message of faith and hope already resonates across the globe.”
President Tinubu commended the Catholic Church for its longstanding contributions to Nigeria, especially in education, healthcare, peacebuilding, and community development. He noted that the Vatican has consistently demonstrated a commitment to uplifting the underprivileged—an effort that aligns with Nigeria’s own goals for social progress.
“Over the years, Nigeria and the Holy See have maintained a rewarding partnership in promoting values of charity and development,” the President said. “We believe that under Pope Leo XIV, these bonds will grow even stronger.”
Pope Leo XIV, who hails from Chicago in the United States, is the first American to become pope in the Church’s 2,000-year history. Known for his calm demeanor, missionary service in Peru, and deep pastoral experience, the 69-year-old pontiff has been widely described as a unifier and bridge-builder within the global Church.
His experience working with communities in remote regions of South America has earned him respect for his focus on the marginalized—a trait that many in Nigeria’s Catholic community believe will benefit African nations.
“His missionary background shows he understands the challenges of people on the margins,” said Father Chima Okoro, a parish priest in Anambra. “We hope his leadership brings more attention to the needs of the developing world.”
President Tinubu also offered prayers for the new pope, asking that God grant him wisdom, strength, and good health as he leads over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy with a call for peace, dialogue, and unity, many Nigerians—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—are watching with hope. His simple yet powerful message, “Help us build bridges,” resonates deeply in a country where faith remains a vital part of everyday life.
