President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined world leaders and millions of faithful across the globe in mourning the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church, who passed away on Monday, just a day after delivering his Easter Sunday Urbi et Orbi blessing.
In an official statement released by the State House, President Tinubu described the late Pontiff as a “humble servant of God” and a “tireless champion of the poor,” whose life was dedicated to uplifting the marginalised and advocating for global justice.
The statement read in part:
“His Holiness served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end. In 2013, he stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten.
“He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations.
“He was an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity. In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor.
“He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions.
“His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant. Through his pastoral letters, the Pope offered spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world. He charted a path of renewal for all humanity through his words and deeds.
“In my 2025 Easter Message, I joined the Christian faithful in thanksgiving for the convalescing Pontiff. I was happy to watch his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.
“Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change. May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom.
As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy. Let us honour him not with words alone but with action: by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person.
The Federal Government has extended its condolences to the Vatican, the global Catholic community, and all Christians. A national day of reflection is expected to be announced in the coming days.
Pope Francis, 88, passed away in his residence at the Vatican. Tributes have poured in from global figures, with many hailing him as a transformative figure who redefined the papacy with his humility, reformist vision, and unwavering commitment to the marginalised
“On behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria, I extend condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and the Christian faithful.
“May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest”, Tinubu said.
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