Hussaini Ibrahim Kafi in Kano
A cross-section of Catholic faithful in Kano have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a spiritual leader whose humility, compassion, and advocacy for justice touched lives across the globe.
Rukevew Obinna, a Catholic originally from the South-East, said the news of the Pope’s death left him devastated. “This is a loss the world cannot measure,” he said. “Pope Francis was a father to all, not just Catholics. His humility, compassion, and love for the poor changed how people saw the Church.”
Ihegbro Chinedu, a Kano resident and businessman from Anambra State, described the Pope as a moral guide in turbulent times. “We have lost a beacon of light in a dark world,” he said. “His courage to speak truth to power and defend the oppressed will never be forgotten.” He urged fellow Christians to carry forward the Pope’s legacy of peace and service.
Christiana Gokyo, a Catholic teacher and choir coordinator from Jos, said she was overwhelmed with grief. “When I heard the news, I wept,” she recalled. “He stood for justice, embraced all people regardless of faith or background, and brought hope to those at the margins of society.” She called the Pope “a spiritual giant with a heart full of mercy.”
Across Nigeria, Pope Francis is being remembered as a reformer and bridge-builder whose life’s work left an indelible mark on the Church and the world.
