The Catholic Bishops in Nigeria, under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) have congratulated His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as the new Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.
In a statement signed by the President of CBCN, Lucius Iwejuru Ugorii, the Bishops assured the new Pope of their allegiance, prayers, and support as he embarks on his Petrine ministry.
“In the joy of the Easter season, we add our voice in thanking God for the successful completion of the conclave, which ended with the election of Pope Leo XIV as the new Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.
“On behalf of all the Catholic Bishops in Nigeria, all Christ’s faithful, and indeed all men and women of goodwill, we extend heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and assure him of our allegiance, prayers, and support as he embarks on his Petrine ministry,” he stated.
The Bishops also extended their congratulations to all the Cardinals who participated in the conclave, especially Peter Ebere Cardinal Okpaleke, and the entire College of Cardinals for their role in the election.
“Notably, this papal transition showcases the Church’s commitment to dignity, honour, and spiritual discernment, offering the world a powerful example of conducting affairs with grace and reverence as children of God.
“We invite all Nigerians and people of goodwill to join us in praying for the new Pope, that he may be endowed with the wisdom, courage, and grace to fulfill his sacred mission.
“As is customary, we remind our priests that the Votive Mass of Thanksgiving for a New Pope may be offered in all our churches. May God bless Pope Leo XIV and the entire Catholic Church,” he concluded.
