“A Sacred Return to His Maker” – President Tinubu, Hails Legacy of Justice and Peace
Juliet Jacob
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, describing the late Pontiff as “a humble servant of God” and “the world’s most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change.”
In a heartfelt condolence message released Monday, Tinubu joined Catholics and Christians around the world in mourning the Pope, whose death comes just a day after he delivered the traditional Easter Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica.
“With a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis,” Tinubu said. “His passing, coming just after the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, is a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”
Reflecting on the Pope’s global influence since his election in 2013, Tinubu praised his unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalised, his calls for environmental justice, and his role in fostering interfaith dialogue.
“He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home—this Earth—is a gift we must protect for future generations,” the President said.
Describing the late Pontiff as “an instrument of peace,” Tinubu acknowledged the Pope’s leadership during an era marked by global division. “He built bridges between faiths and between the rich and the poor,” Tinubu noted, adding that Pope Francis “consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions.”
Tinubu, who had earlier expressed joy at the Pope’s public appearance on Easter Sunday despite recent health challenges, called his sudden passing “a profound loss to the world.”
“Alas, the Lord called him home a day after,” Tinubu said. “May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom.”
He urged the global community to honour Pope Francis not just with words, but with actions inspired by his teachings. “Let us honour him…by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person.”
On behalf of the Nigerian government and people, Tinubu extended condolences to the Vatican, the global Catholic Church, and Christians across the world.
“May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest,” he said.
WHO Lauds His Legacy of Compassion and Global Health Advocacy
Juliet Jacob
The World Health Organization (WHO) has joined the global community in mourning the death of Pope Francis, hailing him as a “humble yet powerful voice of wisdom and humanity.”
The Vatican confirmed the passing of the 88-year-old pontiff on Monday, April 21.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on his X handle on Monday, WHO, Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, hailed Pope Francis as a moral compass in a troubled world, commending his steadfast dedication to the poor and vulnerable.
“I had the honour to meet with him several times—each time I felt personally inspired by his humility,” Dr. Tedros said. “Our world needs more leaders like His Holiness—to champion peace and put the poorest and most vulnerable first. He will be greatly missed.”
The WHO emphasized Pope Francis’s role as a global advocate for human dignity, social justice, and health equity. Throughout his papacy, the Argentine-born pontiff frequently addressed the interconnectedness of poverty, health, and environmental crises—issues at the heart of WHO’s mission.
Under his leadership, the Vatican lent moral weight to international campaigns on climate change and vaccine equity, and he repeatedly urged world leaders to ensure fair access to healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lagos Clergy, Christians Mourn Pope Francis, Hail His Legacy
Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The death of Pope Francis has sparked an outpouring of grief and reflection among Christian faithful in Lagos, as clergy members and laypersons alike have continued to pay glowing tributes and mourn the late pontiff.
Many described him as a beacon of humility and compassion whose influence extended far beyond the Catholic Church.
In interviews with our correspondent in Lagos, several clergymen expressed their sorrow while highlighting Pope Francis’s efforts to promote peace, interfaith dialogue, and social justice.
“He was a shepherd to all people, regardless of denomination,” said Rev. Fr. Patrick Kolade of the Holy Cross Catholic Church, Ikotun. “His voice was loud for the voiceless, and we will miss his moral courage,” he added.
Other pastors from Pentecostal and Anglican backgrounds also paid tribute. Pastor Bamidele Ojo of Grace Mission Church in Iyana-Ipaja described the Pope as “a spiritual father whose example reminded all Christians to embrace the poor and broken-hearted.” He noted that Pope Francis’s humility was “rare and refreshing in an age of materialism.”
On the streets, ordinary Christians stopped to speak with Africa Health Report (AHR), offering prayers and sharing memories of the Pope’s teachings. “Even though I’m not Catholic, I used to listen to him online. He talked like Jesus — gentle but full of truth,” said Kathrine Olusola.
Many expressed hope that the Catholic Church would continue along the path Pope Francis charted during his papacy, especially in embracing young people and defending human dignity.
Some also called on religious leaders in Nigeria to follow his example of simplicity and servant leadership.
As flags fly at half-mast in Catholic institutions across Lagos and special Masses are to be held in his honor, the city joins millions around the world in mourning a man widely regarded as a transformative and beloved religious leader.
