In a significant diplomatic gesture, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has led a high-profile Nigerian delegation to attend the funeral of Pope Francis at the Vatican. The delegation's presence marks Nigeria’s solidarity with the global Catholic community as it bids farewell to one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the modern era.
Akpabio, representing President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian government, arrived in Vatican City alongside key political and religious figures. The delegation includes representatives from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Nigerian Catholic Bishops’ Conference. The event drew world leaders, dignitaries, and religious faithful from around the world who came to pay their last respects to Pope Francis.
In his remarks shortly after arriving in Rome, Akpabio described Pope Francis as “a beacon of peace, humility, and moral leadership whose influence transcended religious boundaries.” He emphasized that the Pope’s advocacy for the poor, climate justice, and global unity left a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
“This is not just a loss for Catholics, but for the entire world,” Akpabio said. “Pope Francis was a leader who preached compassion, inclusiveness, and hope in times of global uncertainty.”
The Nigerian delegation joined other global representatives at St. Peter’s Basilica, where the final mass and funeral rites were conducted by senior Vatican officials. The somber yet dignified ceremony was attended by thousands of mourners, including heads of state, cardinals, and citizens from all continents.
While this marks a rare occasion of national political representation at a religious event, analysts see the gesture as a strategic move to reinforce Nigeria’s global diplomatic presence and its recognition of the Vatican's moral and spiritual influence worldwide.
Akpabio, speaking to the Nigerian press after the event, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting interfaith dialogue, peace, and cooperation between religious communities. He also commended Pope Francis’ role in promoting religious tolerance and unity during his lifetime.
As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis, Nigeria’s participation in the funeral underlines the country’s shared respect for leaders who inspire peace and moral clarity across all cultures and faiths.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0