Yemi Obafemi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Leo XIV on his election as the 267th Bishop of Rome and new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the election of Pope Leo XIV—formerly American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—as a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
He said the Pope’s emergence marks a new chapter in the Church’s enduring legacy of promoting love, humanity, and charity, especially toward the underprivileged.
President Tinubu also congratulated the College of Cardinals for the successful conduct of the papal conclave that led to the election of the new Pontiff.
He rejoiced with the leadership and faithful of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, noting that the new Pope’s early messages of hope and faith are already resonating across the globe, reaffirming scriptural assurances of a more peaceful world.
The president highlighted the longstanding and valued relationship between Nigeria and the Holy See. He commended the Catholic Church for its contributions to peacebuilding, education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
He concluded with a prayer for Pope Leo XIV, asking that God grant him good health and divine wisdom to lead the Church and inspire the world with messages of peace and love.
