Tinubu mourns Pope Francis, hails pontiff’s legacy of justice and compassion

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined leaders across the world in mourning the death of Pope Francis, describing the late Pontiff as “a humble servant of God” and “one of the most steadfast voices for justice and compassion in our time.”

In a statement issued by the State House on Monday, President Tinubu praised the Pope’s lifelong dedication to the poor, his advocacy for peace, and his commitment to building bridges across faiths and social divides. The President noted that the Pope’s passing—coming just a day after Easter celebrations—was symbolic, describing it as “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”

Elected in 2013 as the first Pope from the Global South, Francis brought with him a message of mercy and an unyielding focus on the vulnerable and the marginalised. President Tinubu recalled the Pope’s emphasis on seeing “the face of Christ in the refugees, migrants, and the forgotten,” and his repeated calls on global leaders to act with justice and protect the planet.

“He reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations,” the President said.

Tinubu also highlighted the Pope’s role as a moral compass in turbulent times. From challenging global inequality to advocating for peace in conflict regions, the Nigerian leader said Francis embodied the core Christian values of love, service, and sacrifice. He lauded the Pope’s encyclicals for their spiritual and intellectual depth, describing them as timely and relevant interventions in an increasingly complex world.

Reflecting on his 2025 Easter message, Tinubu said he was grateful to have seen the Pope appear at St. Peter’s Basilica for the Easter Sunday blessing, despite his frail health. “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.

Offering condolences on behalf of the Nigerian government and people, Tinubu called on the global community to honour the Pope’s legacy not just in words, but in action—by “lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person.”

“May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom,” the statement concluded.