By Ali Elias
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a high-powered Nigerian delegation to the Vatican City to participate in the funeral rites of His Holiness, Pope Francis, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.
The delegation, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, reflects Nigeria’s deep respect for the life and legacy of the late Pope, who passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, just one day after the Easter Sunday celebrations he presided over.
Other members of the delegation include Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama of the Abuja Diocese.
The Nigerian delegation is expected to formally deliver a letter from President Tinubu, conveying the nation’s sympathy and condolences to the Acting Head of the Vatican.
President Tinubu, in a condolence message released on Monday, paid tribute to Pope Francis, describing him as “a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the poor, and a guiding light for millions.”
Reflecting on the Pope’s passing so soon after Easter, Tinubu noted: “Pope Francis’s death, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”
The death of Pope Francis marks the end of a papacy that redefined the Catholic Church’s engagement with the modern world, particularly emphasizing social justice, compassion for the marginalized, and interfaith dialogue. His leadership touched millions across continents, including Nigeria, where the Catholic community has long admired his humility and progressive outlook.
In sending such a prominent delegation, President Tinubu underlines Nigeria’s solidarity with the global Catholic community at this time of mourning and remembrance.