Akpabio Leads Nigerian Delegation to Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican City

Eshiorameh Sebastian, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a high ranking Nigerian delegation to Vatican City to attend the funeral of His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, April 21, at the age of 88.

The delegation, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, comprises prominent figures from Nigeria’s political and religious circles, underscoring the nation’s deep respect for the late pontiff.  

The delegation includes the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu; Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama of the Abuja Diocese. Their presence at the funeral, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, reflects the significant influence Pope Francis had on Nigeria’s Christian community and the global Catholic faithful.  

Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died just a day after presiding over Easter Sunday celebrations at the Vatican. His passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from world leaders, religious figures, and millions of adherents who admired his humility, advocacy for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue.  

During the visit, the Nigerian delegation is expected to formally deliver a condolence letter from President Tinubu to the Acting Head of the Vatican. In his earlier message mourning the Pope’s demise, Tinubu described him as

“a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the poor, and a guiding light for millions.” 

The President also noted the symbolic timing of the pontiff’s death, coming shortly after Easter, a period symbolizing renewal and hope for Christians worldwide.  

Pope Francis’ death marks the end of a transformative era for the Catholic Church, characterized by his progressive stance on climate change, economic inequality, and inclusivity. His connection with Africa, including his 2015 visit to Kenya, Uganda, and the Central African Republic, left a lasting impact on the continent’s faithful.