President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined global leaders in mourning the death of Pope Francis, describing the late Pontiff as “a humble servant of God” and “one of the most steadfast voices for justice and compassion in our time.”
In a statement released by the State House on Monday, President Tinubu praised the Pope’s enduring commitment to the poor and marginalized, his ceaseless advocacy for peace, and his efforts to unite people across faiths and social boundaries.
The President remarked on the symbolic nature of the Pope’s passing, which occurred just one day after Easter Sunday, a time of renewed faith and hope for Christians. “It is a sacred return to his Maker at a moment of spiritual reflection and celebration,” Tinubu stated.
Elected in 2013, Pope Francis became the first Pontiff from the Global South. His papacy was marked by a consistent message of mercy and a deep focus on serving the vulnerable. President Tinubu reflected on the Pope’s constant emphasis on recognising “the face of Christ in refugees, migrants, and the forgotten,” and his relentless call for world leaders to uphold justice and care for the planet.
“He reminded us that our common home (this Earth) is a gift to be cherished and safeguarded for generations yet to come,” Tinubu said.
The President also praised Pope Francis as a beacon of moral clarity during global uncertainty. From addressing widening inequality to calling for peace in conflict zones, Tinubu said the Pope exemplified the Christian virtues of love, sacrifice, and service. He described the Pope’s encyclicals as powerful spiritual and intellectual contributions, offering much-needed guidance in an increasingly complex and divided world.
Reflecting on his final Easter Sunday appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica, Tinubu expressed gratitude for having witnessed the Pope’s blessing despite his declining health. “Alas, the Lord called him home a day later, and the world lost one of its strongest voices for justice and environmental stewardship,” he said.
On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community and called for the late Pope’s legacy to be honoured through tangible actions, uplifting the vulnerable, healing divided communities, and upholding the dignity of every human life.
“May the good Lord, whom he served faithfully and selflessly, welcome him into His eternal embrace,” the statement concluded.
