Tinubu Hails Historic Papal Election, Welcomes Pope Leo XIV as Beacon of Hope and Humanity

By Achimi muktar

In a message that echoed across both religious and diplomatic circles, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his historic election as the 267th Bishop of Rome—expressing hope that his papacy will usher in a new chapter for the Catholic Church and humanity at large.

The new pontiff, formerly Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost, is the first American ever to lead the global Catholic Church, a development that has drawn global attention and reaction—including from Nigeria’s presidency.

President Tinubu’s congratulatory message, delivered through his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, emphasized the Pope’s symbolic and spiritual role in promoting values that resonate deeply with Nigeria’s aspirations.

“The President 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,” the statement read. “He reaffirms the rich and long-standing relations between Nigeria and the Holy See.”

Tinubu also acknowledged the Catholic Church’s enduring contributions to Nigerian society—in peacebuilding, education, healthcare, and even the promotion of technology to enhance human development.

Beyond diplomacy, the Nigerian leader spoke with spiritual warmth, praying for the Pope’s success: “President Tinubu prays that the Almighty God will continuously shed his light of glory over the new leader of the Catholic Church and grant him good health and wisdom so that he can reach the world with the message of peace and love.”

As Pope Leo XIV begins his tenure with the weight of global expectations on his shoulders, Nigeria stands among the nations watching closely—hopeful that his leadership will bridge divides and inspire a more compassionate world.