President Bola Tinubu has described the death of Pope Francis as a great loss to the world, saying humanity has lost one of its most powerful voices for justice, peace, and compassion.
In a statement personally signed by him on Monday, the President joined Catholics and Christians across the world in mourning the revered spiritual leader, who passed away just a day after delivering his traditional Easter Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica.
“With a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions,” Tinubu said.
He noted that the timing of the Pope’s death—following the celebration of Christ’s resurrection—signified a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.
Recalling the Pope’s papacy, which began in 2013, Tinubu said Pope Francis stepped onto the global stage with a clear message of mercy, calling on the world to recognise Christ in the marginalised, the poor, the migrants, and the forgotten.
“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 added.
Tinubu praised the late Pontiff’s deep commitment to interfaith harmony, climate action, and advocacy for the developing world. He described Pope Francis as “an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity.”
Reflecting on his 2025 Easter message, Tinubu said he had joined Christians in praying for the Pope’s health and had been pleased to see the Pontiff deliver his Easter message before his sudden passing.
“Alas, the Lord called him home a day after, making the world lose its most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change,” he said.
The President commended the Pope’s numerous encyclicals and pastoral letters for providing spiritual clarity and moral guidance in an increasingly complex world, adding that his legacy should inspire collective action.
“As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy. 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,” Tinubu urged.
On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, the President extended condolences to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and the Christian faithful.
“May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest,” Tinubu concluded.
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