President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound grief over the passing of Pope Francis, calling the late Pontiff a devoted champion of the impoverished and a source of guidance for millions globally.
In a heartfelt statement released on Easter Monday, April 21, Tinubu lauded Pope Francis for his steadfast dedication to serving God and humanity. The Pope passed away at the age of 88.
“Today, with a heavy heart, I stand with the Catholic faithful and Christians across the globe in mourning the loss of Pope Francis—a humble servant of God, an unwavering advocate for the underprivileged, and a beacon of hope for countless individuals,” Tinubu stated. “His departure, occurring shortly after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, represents a sacred return to his Creator amid a season of renewed hope for Christians.”
Reflecting on Pope Francis’s rise to the papacy in 2013, Tinubu highlighted his transformative impact on the world stage.
“From the outset, he brought a message of mercy, urging us to recognize Christ in the marginalized, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten. He challenged the powerful to pursue justice, called on nations to embrace the stranger, and reminded us all that our planet—our shared home—is a divine gift that we must preserve for future generations.”
Tinubu characterized the late Pontiff as an “instrument of peace,” deeply resonating with Christ’s message of love for God and humanity.
“In an era marked by global discord, he forged connections between faiths and bridged divides between the affluent and the impoverished. He was a committed advocate for the developing world, continually speaking out against economic injustice and praying for peace in regions beset by turmoil.”
The President also commended Pope Francis’s spiritual guidance, stating that his encyclicals and pastoral letters were “not only doctrinally significant but also timely and relevant,” offering clarity and hope in a world that is increasingly complex.
He recalled that just the day before the Pope’s passing, he expressed gratitude for the Pontiff’s improving health and was delighted to see him at the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica.
“Sadly, the Lord summoned him home the following day, and the world lost its most passionate advocate for justice and climate action,” Tinubu remarked. “May the good Lord, whom he served wholeheartedly, welcome him into His eternal embrace.”
Emphasizing the importance of honoring the Pope’s legacy through action, Tinubu urged, “Let us not merely express our sorrow in words but also strive to uplift the downtrodden, heal our communities, and uphold the dignity of every individual.”
“On behalf of the Nigerian government and its people, I extend my condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and all Christian believers.”
