President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will travel to Rome on Saturday, to attend the historic inauguration of Pope Leo XIV—the first American-born pontiff and the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
The event, scheduled for Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, marks a significant moment for the global Catholic community.
President Tinubu described the occasion as “historic and spiritually significant,” emphasizing the importance of Nigeria’s diplomatic and religious ties with the Holy See.
“This is a moment of profound unity for the world’s faithful,” Tinubu said in an official statement released Friday. “Nigeria stands in solidarity with the Catholic Church and celebrates this new chapter under Pope Leo XIV’s leadership.”
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected after the death of Pope Francis on April 21. He becomes the first U.S.-born pope and holds dual citizenship with Peru, a nod to his decades of missionary work across South America.
Tinubu’s visit to Rome comes in response to an invitation from the Vatican. His presence underscores Nigeria’s commitment to international religious diplomacy and its recognition of the Catholic Church’s influence in the country, where millions of citizens are members of the faith.
The papal inauguration will feature centuries-old traditions including the bestowal of the Fisherman’s Ring and the pallium, symbols of the pope’s spiritual authority. Dignitaries expected at the event include U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and leaders of the Anglican Communion.
Since his election, Pope Leo XIV has called for global unity, peace, and dialogue, vowing to continue the reformist trajectory of Pope Francis. His inauguration also marks the beginning of the Holy Year 2025, a Jubilee celebration expected to bring millions of pilgrims to Rome.
President Tinubu’s participation in the ceremony highlights Nigeria’s role in promoting interfaith dialogue and fostering global partnerships through shared spiritual values.
