Pope Francis: Late pontiff a tireless champion of the poor – Tinubu

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined world leaders in expressing profound grief over the passing of Pope Francis, describing the late pontiff as “a humble servant of God” and “tireless champion of the poor.”

In an official statement released on Monday on X, President Tinubu reflected on the Pope’s significant global impact and his special connection to developing nations like Nigeria.

“Today, with a heavy heart, I join the Catholic faithful and Christians worldwide in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions,” President Tinubu said.

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“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.”

The Nigerian leader noted the poignant timing of the Pope’s death, which occurred just one day after his Easter Sunday appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica.

“In my 2025 Easter Message, I joined the Christian faithful in thanksgiving for the convalescing Pontiff. I was happy to watch his appearance to deliver the traditional Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Basilica. Alas, the Lord called him home a day after,” he said.

President Tinubu highlighted Pope Francis’s unwavering advocacy for social justice, particularly for developing regions facing economic challenges and instability. “He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions,” Tinubu stated.

The President also emphasized the Pope’s commitment to addressing critical global issues, describing him as “the world’s most trenchant voice for justice and action against climate change.”

Pope Francis, who began his papacy in 2013, was known for his message of mercy and inclusivity. According to President Tinubu, “He stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten.”

The Nigerian leader praised the Pope’s ability to unite people across different faiths and socioeconomic backgrounds. “In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and the rich and the poor,” he said.

President Tinubu also commended the late pontiff’s writings and teachings, noting, “His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant. Through his pastoral letters, the Pope offered spiritual clarity and hope in an increasingly complex world.”

As the Catholic Church and Christians worldwide mourn this significant loss, President Tinubu called for action to honour the Pope’s legacy.

“Let us honour him not with words alone but with action: by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person,” he urged.

The statement concluded with President Tinubu extending condolences on behalf of Nigeria to the Catholic Church and the global Christian community, and a prayer: “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest.”

The news of Pope Francis’s passing has sparked tributes from leaders around the world, reflecting the profound impact of his leadership and humanitarian work during his papacy.