Tinubu, Atiku, Govs, others mourn Pope Francis
…He was more than a spiritual leader — Northern CAN
By our Correspondents
The world is united in mourning following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away yesterday at the age of 88. Revered as a spiritual giant and a global voice for peace and justice, his passing has triggered a flood of tributes from leaders across the world, including prominent figures in Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, several state governors, and religious leaders have all expressed heartfelt condolences, recalling Pope Francis’s legacy as one of compassion, humility, and moral courage.
In a statement from his office, President Tinubu conveyed deep sorrow at the Pope’s passing, describing him as a “humble servant of God” whose life was dedicated to serving humanity. He referred to the late pontiff as a “steadfast advocate for the poor and a moral compass for millions,” praising his commitment to global peace and unity.
“The world has lost a spiritual shepherd whose leadership extended beyond religious borders,” Tinubu said. “We pray for the Catholic Church and the global community he led so faithfully. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also joined in the tributes, remembering Pope Francis for his principled stance on justice and his dedication to fostering dialogue across faiths.
“Pope Francis was a beacon of hope and love,” Atiku said. “His time as head of the Catholic Church was defined by humility and a steadfast devotion to uplifting the marginalised. His voice will be missed in a world that still longs for moral clarity and compassion.”
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, speaking through his Press Secretary Christian Aburime, mourned the Pope as “a revered figure of faith, humility and service.” He commended the late pontiff’s commitment to social justice and his work in building bridges across religious divides.
“Pope Francis was more than a religious leader—he was a global statesman of conscience,” Soludo noted.
“His life’s work will continue to inspire future generations to embrace love, mercy, and human dignity. As we grieve, we are reminded of the urgent need to build a just and compassionate society in his honour.”
In a similar tone, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo described Pope Francis as a “towering presence” whose moral vision cut across national and religious boundaries. In a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, Governor Ododo said the Pope’s teachings and example offered the world a path toward justice and empathy.
“In times of uncertainty, the Pope’s voice was unwavering—calling the world to higher ideals and deeper compassion,” the governor said.
“His absence is deeply felt, but his vision will endure. We pray that his legacy continues to shape global conversations on peace, dignity, and solidarity.”
Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, also paid tribute, describing the late Pope as “a moral compass in a troubled world.”
“I received with deep sadness the news of Pope Francis’s passing,” Obi said. “His death marks the close of an era in global spiritual leadership. Throughout his pontificate, he embodied the values of faith, compassion and courageous leadership.”
Obi reflected on his personal encounters with the Pope, whom he met on three separate occasions. He particularly praised the pontiff’s commitment to education and youth development through the Scholas Occurrentes Foundation, an initiative founded by Pope Francis himself.
“He led with quiet strength, spoke with wisdom, and acted with conviction,” Obi said. “The world will sorely miss his grace and guidance.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory also expressed profound grief, calling Pope Francis a global symbol of peace, integrity, and spiritual transformation.
In a statement signed by the Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. John Joseph Hayab, the group acknowledged the Pope’s impact not only within the Catholic Church, but also across interfaith and ecumenical platforms.
“Pope Francis represented the best of what faith can offer the world,” Hayab said. “His pontificate brought progress, renewal, and bold reform to the Church. He stood for the voiceless, defended the environment, and challenged injustice wherever it arose.”
Hayab also remarked on the significance of Pope Francis being the first Latin American and Jesuit to hold the papacy, saying it brought a unique blend of intellect, humility, and pastoral care to his office.
“His leadership resonated deeply with Catholic communities in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
“Through his words and deeds, he inspired believers to embrace a life of service and dialogue.”
Northern CAN encouraged Christians to honour the Pope’s memory by recommitting to the principles he lived by: tolerance, love, justice, and mercy.
“At this time of loss, we not only mourn, we reflect and recommit,” the statement concluded. “May the soul of His Holiness, Pope Francis, find eternal rest. And may his life’s example continue to guide the Church and the world he so dearly loved.”
