The Federal Government joined the rest of the world on Monday in mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88.

The revered head of the Roman Catholic Church died just a day after appearing for Easter Sunday celebrations at the Vatican.

President Bola Tinubu led tributes from Nigeria, describing Pope Francis as “a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions.”

In a statement personally signed by the President, Tinubu reflected on the Pope’s legacy, calling his death “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”

“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,” Tinubu said.

The President praised the Pope’s commitment to justice, environmental protection, and his efforts to build bridges across religious and socio-economic divides.

Recalling the Pope’s appearance during the recent Easter celebrations, Tinubu expressed sorrow that the Pontiff passed away only a day later.

Tinubu extended condolences to the global Catholic community, affirming, “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”

Tributes also poured in from around the world.

French President Emmanuel Macron praised the Pope for standing “on the side of the most vulnerable and the most fragile,” while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mourned the loss of “a great man.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him “a beacon of compassion,” and Israeli President Isaac Herzog acknowledged his efforts in interfaith dialogue.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas remembered Pope Francis as “a faithful friend” who recognised the Palestinian state, while Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi described the Pontiff as “a voice of peace, love and compassion.”

From Kenya to Lebanon, global leaders highlighted the Pope’s commitment to dialogue, justice, and service to the poor. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said his legacy would continue to “inspire future generations,” while Kenyan President William Ruto praised his “servant leadership.”

Meanwhile, back in Nigeria, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its grief. In a statement issued by the Ministry’s spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, the late Pontiff was hailed as “a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.”

The government noted that Pope Francis’ advocacy for the poor, refugees, and conflict victims resonated strongly in Nigeria, a nation grappling with many of the same challenges.

His 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including abuses against Indigenous peoples, was described as “a powerful example of reconciliation.”

The Christian Association of Nigeria, through its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, paid tribute to Pope Francis as a “towering figure of faith” who “radiated mercy, justice, and a profound love for humanity.”

Though he never visited Nigeria, CAN commended his appointments of Nigerian bishops and cardinals, and his support for interfaith dialogue.

“His outspoken advocacy against poverty, corruption, and inequality deeply resonated with us,” CAN said, pointing to his writings such as Laudato Si’ and Amoris Laetitia as lasting spiritual resources.

Also, a former presidential candidate and governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, joined in mourning the Pope, describing him as “a strong ethical compass” and “a loss to humanity.”

Kwankwaso said the Pope’s dedication to humility and service would be remembered across generations.



https://punchng.com/tinubu-world-leaders-mourn-as-pope-francis-dies-at-88/