Hussaini Kafi in Kano
Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church and the first Latin American pontiff, has died at the age of 88.
According to reports by Radio France Internationale (RFI) and confirmed by the Vatican, the Pope passed away at 7:35 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025,
His death marks the end of a transformative 12-year papacy that sought to reshape the Church with a focus on compassion, humility, and social justice.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit and non-European pope in more than a millennium. Widely respected for his progressive views and deep concern for the poor, he became a global moral authority, frequently addressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and the refugee crisis.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, described him as “a devoted servant of the Church and a champion of Gospel values, especially attentive to the needs of the poorest and most marginalized.”
Despite a series of health challenges in recent years—including a hospitalization in February for bronchitis, which later progressed into pneumonia—Pope Francis continued to lead the Church, making public appearances and delivering sermons with characteristic energy and conviction.
Tributes have begun pouring in from religious leaders, world dignitaries, and millions of faithful Catholics across the globe.
The Vatican is expected to release full details regarding funeral arrangements and the commencement of the papal conclave to elect his successor in the coming days.
Pope Francis leaves behind a lasting legacy of reform, inclusion, and spiritual leadership that has reshaped the modern Catholic Church.
