President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis, describing him as a “humble servant of God” and a “tireless champion of the poor” whose voice resonated powerfully across the world in defense of the vulnerable.
In a solemn statement issued from the State House on Monday, President Tinubu joined the global Catholic community and Christians around the world in mourning the death of the revered pontiff, who died just a day after delivering his Easter Sunday blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica.
“The passing of Pope Francis, coming so soon after the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, marks a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians,” the President stated. “His Holiness served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end.”
Reflecting on the Pope’s legacy, President Tinubu hailed his message of mercy and justice, recalling the Pontiff’s unwavering advocacy for the marginalized, migrants, refugees, and the poor. He commended the Pope’s efforts in challenging the powerful, promoting peace, and building bridges across faiths, cultures, and socio-economic divides.
“Pope Francis 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 brought unity. In a world gripped by indifference, he brought compassion,” Tinubu noted.
The Nigerian leader also praised the late Pope’s commitment to environmental justice, noting that his strong voice on climate change and economic disparity positioned him as a beacon of conscience for the developing world.
President Tinubu recalled his 2025 Easter message, in which he celebrated the Pope’s resilience as he appeared publicly to deliver the Easter blessing. “Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change,” he lamented.
On behalf of the Nigerian government and people, the President extended his condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Christian community, and all those mourning the Pope’s passing.
“As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy,” President Tinubu urged. “Let us honour him not just with words, but with action—by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person.”
Pope Francis, who ascended to the papacy in 2013, was widely regarded as a reformer and moral compass in a time of global uncertainty. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
