President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing the late Pontiff as a tireless champion of the poor and a guiding light to millions around the world.
In a statement personally signed and released on Easter Monday, April 21, Tinubu praised Pope Francis for his unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity. The Pope died at the age of 88.
“Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis—a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions,” Tinubu wrote.
“His passing, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”
Tinubu reflected on Pope Francis’s ascension in 2013 and his transformative influence on the global stage.
“From the beginning, he came 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 on nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us all that this Earth—our common home—is a sacred gift we must protect for future generations.”
He described the late Pope as an “instrument of peace” who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity.
“In a time of global division, he built bridges between faiths, between the rich and the poor. He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, constantly speaking out against economic injustice and praying for peace in troubled regions.”
Tinubu also praised Pope Francis’ spiritual leadership, saying his encyclicals and pastoral letters were “not only doctrinal and seminal, but timely and relevant,” offering clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world.
He recalled that in his 2025 Easter message, he joined Christians in thanksgiving for the Pontiff’s improving health and was pleased to see his appearance at the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.
“Alas, the Lord called him home a day later, and the world lost its most passionate voice for justice and climate action,” Tinubu said. “May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom.”
Calling for the Pope’s legacy to be honoured through action, Tinubu added: “Let us not only mourn him with words but also uplift those who are downtrodden, heal our communities, and defend the dignity of every person.”
“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.”
