President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today expressed profound grief following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, describing him as “a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions.
“Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis,”; President Tinubu said in an official statement released by the Statehouse Press Office.
“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.”;
Since his selection in 2013, Pope Francis has been celebrated for his emphasis on mercy and social justice.
“He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations,”; the President noted, referencing the late Pontiff’s landmark encyclical, Laudato Si’.
President Tinubu also highlighted Pope Francis’s role as a bridge‑builder: “He 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 built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor.”;
Reflecting on the global impact of Francis’s message, Tinubu added, “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.”;
The President praised the Pope’s encyclicals and pastoral letters for offering, “spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world.”;
In his 2025 Easter Message, President Tinubu had joined the faithful in thanksgiving for the Pope’s recovery following recent health challenges.
“I was happy to watch his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica,”; he recalled. Tragically, the Pontiff passed away on April 21, one day after that appearance.
“As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy,”; President 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.”;
He then extended condolences, saying “on behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria”; to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and all Christians, praying that, “God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”;
