President Tinubu to Attend Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration in Rome

Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to travel to Rome, Italy, this Saturday, May 17, to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The invitation, extended by the Vatican, underscores the significance of President Tinubu’s presence at this pivotal event.

The invitation, conveyed through Cardinal Pietro Parolin, highlights the Pope’s desire for President Tinubu to participate in the solemn mass marking the beginning of his pontificate. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was elected by the Conclave of Cardinals following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21.

The Papal invitation emphasized the importance of President Tinubu’s attendance “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts.” Pope Leo XIV also expressed a personal connection to Nigeria, recalling his time serving in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s.

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President Tinubu’s delegation includes prominent figures such as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and several leading figures from the Nigerian Catholic Church. These include Archbishop Lucius Ugorji of Owerri and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese.

The inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican City. The event is expected to draw global leaders and dignitaries.

Pope Leo XIV’s election, occurring 27 days after the passing of Pope Francis, marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church. Information gathered online depicts that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, prior to his election, had served in significant roles within the Catholic Church, including his service as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20th