On the historic occasion of Pope Leo XIV’s 70th birthday, Nigerian statesman and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, joined millions of Catholics and admirers worldwide to celebrate the Pontiff’s remarkable life of faith and service.
In a moving tribute titled “Seventy Years of Grace,” Obi described the Holy Father as “a living witness to God’s grace,” whose humility, courage, and steadfast faith have inspired generations within and beyond the Catholic Church.
Obi underscored the symbolic weight of the day, noting that the Pope’s milestone birthday falls on the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross—a day that transforms the Cross from a symbol of suffering into one of victory and redemption. “In the same way,” Obi wrote, “your life shows how faith, perseverance, and fidelity to Christ can transform trials into triumphs and despair into hope.”
The former Anambra State governor reflected on how Pope Leo XIV’s leadership has embodied compassion and moral courage in a world facing turbulence and division. He praised the Pontiff’s ability to guide the Church with wisdom while offering a voice for the marginalized and a beacon of unity across cultures and nations.
Offering heartfelt prayers for the Pope’s continued mission, Obi wrote: “May the Lord guide and guard you always, blessing your years ahead with health, peace, and lasting fulfillment.”
He concluded his message with the traditional Latin blessing, “Ad multos annos!”—a wish for many more fruitful years of grace-filled leadership.
Obi’s tribute aligned with his consistent calls for moral integrity and servant leadership, drawing a parallel between the Pope’s life of disciplined faith and the values he advocates for in public service. The message also reflects the broader global admiration for Pope Leo XIV as a spiritual shepherd whose witness to the Gospel continues to inspire millions.
Pope Leo XIV
