President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a "humble servant of God" and a "tireless champion of the poor." In a heartfelt statement, Tinubu joined Catholics and Christians worldwide in mourning the pontiff, emphasizing his legacy of compassion and interfaith bridge-building.
The president highlighted the symbolic timing of the Pope's death, occurring just after Easter, as a "sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians." He reflected on the Pope's 2013 ascension, noting his message of mercy and his call to see Christ in the marginalized, refugees, migrants, and the forgotten.
"His Holiness served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end," Tinubu stated. "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."
Tinubu praised the Pope's advocacy for justice, his call for nations to welcome strangers, and his reminder of the need to protect the Earth for future generations. He acknowledged the Pope's role as an "instrument of peace" who built bridges between faiths and between the rich and 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," Tinubu added. "His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant."
The president recalled his 2025 Easter Message, in which he expressed gratitude for the Pope's convalescence and his joy at seeing the pontiff deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing. He lamented the Pope's passing, noting the world had lost "its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change."
Tinubu called on Nigerians and the global community to honor the Pope's legacy through action, urging them to lift those who are down, heal communities, and defend the dignity of every person.
"As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy," Tinubu said. "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."
On behalf of the Nigerian government and people, President Tinubu extended condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and all Christian faithful, praying for the Pope's eternal rest.