Pope Leo XIV Invites President Tinubu to Historic Inauguration Ceremony in Rome

 

In a remarkable diplomatic gesture, Pope Leo XIV has officially invited Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend his inauguration ceremony in Rome, Italy. This significant event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 18, at the iconic St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican City. The ceremony will mark the formal beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate as the 267th Bishop of Rome and spiritual leader of the worldwide Catholic Church.

The invitation to President Tinubu underscores the importance of his presence at what Cardinal Pietro Parolin described as “this pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.” Speaking on behalf of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Parolin emphasized that the Pope values the Nigerian leader’s attendance especially at a time when the world faces various global tensions and conflicts. The Pope’s call for unity and peace is highlighted through this symbolic invitation, demonstrating the role of faith and leadership in healing and diplomacy.

In a statement released on Thursday, Bayo Onanuga, the spokesperson for President Tinubu, affirmed that this visit not only marks a spiritual milestone but also reinforces the strong and long-standing diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the Vatican. This visit is expected to foster deeper relations and mutual understanding between the two states, both of which play significant roles on the global stage.

Adding a personal touch to the invitation, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was quoted as saying:
“Your great nation is particularly dear to me as I worked in the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s.” This statement reflects the Pope’s familiarity and affection for Nigeria, hinting at the close connections he has maintained with the country over the decades.

President Tinubu’s delegation to the Vatican is notable for its inclusion of prominent figures from both the political and religious sectors of Nigeria. Accompanying the President are the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; the Archbishop of Owerri and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji; Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja; and Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos. These distinguished individuals represent Nigeria’s rich religious leadership and diplomatic presence, emphasizing the importance of this historic visit.

Also part of the President’s entourage is the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Mathew Hassan Kukah, a respected voice in interfaith dialogue and national development.

The inauguration ceremony itself is a momentous occasion. Pope Leo XIV, who was elected by the Conclave of Cardinals just 27 days after the passing of his predecessor, Pope Francis, on April 21, will be formally installed as the new pontiff. The ceremony at St. Peter’s Square is expected to draw thousands of attendees, including world leaders, cardinals, and faithful Catholics from around the globe.

After attending this historic event, President Tinubu is scheduled to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20, bringing back not only diplomatic goodwill but also a renewed spirit of faith and collaboration between Nigeria and the Holy See.