In a gesture rich with symbolism and diplomacy, Nigeria is stepping into the global spotlight as Senate President Godswill Akpabio leads the country’s official delegation to the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City this Saturday, April 26.
Chosen by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the delegation reflects Nigeria’s deep interfaith respect, regional leadership, and enduring ties with the Vatican.
It comprises prominent figures from both government and the Church: 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; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama.
Their presence at the historic funeral underscores Nigeria’s voice in matters of global spirituality, morality, and peacebuilding.
At a time when the world is grieving the loss of a Pope who became a symbol of unity across faiths, Nigeria’s delegation will deliver a condolence letter from President Tinubu to the Vatican’s acting leadership—affirming the nation’s solidarity with millions of Catholics and Christians worldwide.
Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88, was revered not only for his theological leadership but for his global advocacy for the poor, the environment, and peace in conflict zones. Nigeria, with its vibrant Catholic population and complex religious landscape, found in Pope Francis a friend and a voice that resonated across divides.
In his tribute, President Tinubu praised the late Pontiff as “a humble servant of God” whose life embodied selflessness, courage, and compassion. He noted that Pope Francis’ passing shortly after Easter was “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope.”
By leading this delegation, Akpabio steps into a moment of history—where faith, diplomacy, and the conscience of nations converge. And in doing so, Nigeria reaffirms its place in the global conversation on peace, unity, and moral leadership.
