● Luca Benedetti
VATICAN – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the humility and message of peace embodied by Pope Leo XIV, describing the new pontiff’s leadership as “the moral compass the world desperately needs.” The President made this remark after participating in the Inauguration Mass of the new pope at the Vatican on Tuesday, May 18, 2025.
Speaking after the Mass, which drew world leaders, diplomats, and millions of Catholics from across the globe, Tinubu noted that Pope Leo XIV’s personal history with Nigeria and his call for unity reflect shared values between the Holy See and Africa’s most populous nation. “His Holiness Pope Leo XIV’s humility, history with Nigeria, and message of peace remind us of the moral leadership the world desperately needs,” Tinubu said.
The Nigerian leader’s presence at the Vatican came at the personal invitation of Pope Leo XIV, underscoring the depth of relations between Nigeria and the Holy See. This marks a continuation of Tinubu’s push for interfaith understanding and Nigeria’s commitment to constructive engagement with global institutions rooted in faith and humanitarian work.
“As a nation of deep faith and great diversity, Nigeria remains committed to building bridges across belief, race, and continent – for peace, for progress, and for all of humanity,” the President stated. Tinubu’s message has resonated across diplomatic and religious circles, particularly as Nigeria seeks to play a greater role in conflict resolution and peace-building across the African continent.
Ambassador Paul Oga Adikwu, Nigeria’s envoy to the Holy See, said President Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican was both symbolic and strategic. “It affirms Nigeria’s readiness to be a unifying force in today’s divided world. The President’s attendance reinforces our shared commitment to global harmony and spiritual diplomacy,” Adikwu said.
Observers have highlighted the significance of a Muslim president attending a Catholic Mass of global importance. “It’s a profound act of interreligious solidarity,” noted Monsignor Matteo Rossi, a senior Vatican official. “President Tinubu’s example is one of tolerance, respect, and visionary leadership – values the Church cherishes in its partners around the world.”
The papacy of Pope Leo XIV, who previously served as Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, is expected to emphasize peace, human dignity, and Africa’s rising role in global affairs. His deep understanding of Nigeria’s religious and cultural dynamics positions him as a potential ally in the continent’s quest for stability and social justice.
Concluding his remarks, President Tinubu said, “May the Almighty guide the Holy Father and strengthen all who labour for a more just and compassionate world.” His message has been welcomed as a sign of Nigeria’s readiness to continue shaping international conversations anchored on faith, cooperation, and the common good. GMTNewsng
