President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing the pontiff’s death shortly after Easter celebrations as “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”
In a heartfelt statement issued Monday, the President reflected on the 88-year-old pontiff’s remarkable legacy: “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.”
The President noted the striking timing of the Pope’s passing, coming just one day after he delivered his traditional Easter Sunday blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica. “I was happy to watch his appearance 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,” Tinubu stated.
Highlighting the Pope’s global impact, the Nigerian leader praised Francis as “a steadfast advocate for the developing world” who consistently challenged economic injustice and prayed for peace 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,” the President added.
The statement carried particular poignancy as Tinubu had just days earlier, in his Easter message, expressed gratitude for the Pope’s recovery from a recent health crisis. “We pray that his renewed strength continues to inspire his leadership and service to humanity,” the President had written on Saturday.
Calling on Nigerians and the global community to honor the pontiff’s legacy through action, Tinubu urged: “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 President extended official condolences on behalf of Nigeria’s government and people to the Catholic Church worldwide, concluding: “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”
Pope Francis passed away Monday morning at age 88, just weeks after being hospitalized for pneumonia. His death has prompted global mourning and tributes from world leaders across religious and political spectrums.
