Nigerian President to Attend Historic Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV

By Achimi Muktar

In a historic show of diplomacy and faith, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to jet off to Rome this Saturday to attend one of the most significant global religious events of the decade — the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected head of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Vatican extended a special invitation to the Nigerian leader, underscoring his presence as a key representation of Africa at the papal installation mass, which is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, at the iconic St. Peter’s Square.

The announcement was made public by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, via a statement on X (formerly Twitter).

A Papal Transition and a Nigerian Connection

The new Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, will be officially installed as the 267th Bishop of Rome, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. His election by the Conclave of Cardinals just 27 days later marks a swift and seamless transition of spiritual authority.

But what makes this moment even more special for Nigeria? Pope Leo XIV has a personal connection to the country. In a touching message included in the Vatican's invitation, he recalled his time working in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s, describing Nigeria as "particularly dear" to him.

Global Significance, African Presence

The Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, emphasized the importance of President Tinubu’s attendance, calling the event a “moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts.”

By attending, Tinubu will not only be representing Nigeria but also positioning the country as a key player in global religious diplomacy, reaffirming ties between Africa and the Vatican at a time of growing calls for global peace, inclusion, and interfaith collaboration.

Nigeria's Delegation: A Blend of Faith and State

President Tinubu won’t be going alone. He will be accompanied by a distinguished delegation that bridges both the government and the Catholic Church in Nigeria, including:

Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria

Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja

Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese

This high-powered mix of diplomatic and religious leaders reflects Nigeria’s deep Catholic roots, particularly in the South-East and parts of the Middle Belt, as well as the country’s growing presence on the global stage.

A Quick Trip with Lasting Impact

President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20, after what many are calling a symbolic journey of unity, faith, and diplomacy.

As the eyes of the world turn to Rome, Nigeria will not only have a seat at the table — it will be standing at the heart of history.