Senate President Akpabio Leads Nigerian Delegation to Vatican City to Honor Late Pope Francis

Vatican City, April 25, 2025 – Senate President Godswill Akpabio arrived at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City today, leading a high-level Nigerian delegation to pay tribute to the late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, 2025. The visit, marked by solemnity and reverence, underscored Nigeria’s deep respect for the pontiff’s legacy and the enduring diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the Holy See.

Akpabio, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian people, was warmly received by Bishop Javier Domingo Fernandez Gonzalez, the Chief of Protocol to the Vatican. The delegation’s arrival coincided with the public viewing of Pope Francis, whose lying-in-state at St. Peter’s Basilica has drawn thousands of mourners from across the globe. By the close of April 25, over 128,000 people had visited the Basilica to pay their final respects to the beloved pontiff, known for his humility, advocacy for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue.

The Nigerian delegation included prominent figures such as Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese, and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama of the Abuja Archdiocese. Their presence highlighted the significance of the visit, reflecting Nigeria’s diverse religious and political leadership united in honoring Pope Francis.

During the visit, Senate President Akpabio delivered a letter from President Tinubu to the Acting Head of the Vatican, conveying Nigeria’s heartfelt condolences. The letter praised Pope Francis for his unwavering dedication to peace, compassion, and global unity, noting his special connection with Nigeria through his messages of hope and calls for justice. Akpabio expressed Nigeria’s gratitude for the pontiff’s contributions to fostering harmony and understanding, particularly in regions marked by conflict and division.

“Pope Francis was a beacon of light for humanity, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations,” Akpabio said in a brief address. “On behalf of President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria, we mourn his loss but celebrate his extraordinary life of service. His teachings on love, humility, and justice resonate deeply with our values as a nation.”

The delegation’s visit to St. Peter’s Basilica included a moment of prayer and reflection at the side of the late pontiff’s body, which was laid out for public veneration. The Basilica, adorned with symbols of mourning, provided a serene backdrop for the delegation’s tribute. The Nigerian representatives joined thousands of pilgrims, world leaders, and dignitaries who have flocked to Vatican City since the announcement of Pope Francis’ passing.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church from March 13, 2013, until his death at the age of 88. His papacy was marked by significant reforms, including efforts to address climate change, promote interreligious dialogue, and reform the Vatican’s financial systems. His outreach to marginalized communities and his emphasis on mercy over judgment earned him widespread admiration, including in Nigeria, where the Catholic Church plays a significant role in the nation’s social and spiritual life.

The Nigerian delegation’s presence in Vatican City also reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the Holy See. Diplomatic ties, established in 1975, have been strengthened through mutual commitments to peace, development, and religious coexistence. Pope Francis’ messages to Nigeria, including his calls for an end to violence and support for the disadvantaged, have left a lasting impact on the nation’s leaders and citizens alike.

As the world awaits the conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor, the Nigerian delegation’s visit serves as a poignant reminder of the pontiff’s global influence. Senate President Akpabio and his delegation are expected to return to Nigeria after concluding their engagements in Vatican City, carrying with them the shared grief and hope inspired by Pope Francis’ extraordinary life.

The public viewing of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica will continue until his funeral, scheduled for April 28, 2025, allowing more faithful to bid farewell to a leader whose legacy transcends borders and faiths. For Nigeria, the visit of Senate President Akpabio and his delegation marks a moment of unity and reflection, honoring a pontiff whose life touched millions, including the diverse peoples of Africa’s most populous nation.