President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his warmest congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV following his election as the Bishop of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.

The President’s message was conveyed in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, President Tinubu felicitated with the College of Cardinals for electing American-born Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Pope, succeeding Pope Francis. He described the new Pope’s election as historic, noting that his message of faith and hope is already resonating across the globe, offering reassurance of a more peaceful world inspired by scriptural values.

President Tinubu also rejoiced with the leadership and members of the Catholic Church in Nigeria, emphasizing the strong relationship between Nigeria and the Holy See. He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s significant role in peacebuilding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the promotion of technology in human development.

He expressed optimism that the election of Pope Leo XIV heralds a new chapter for the Church, particularly in its commitment to values of love, humanity, and charity towards the less privileged. The President prayed for divine guidance, good health, and wisdom for the new Pontiff as he leads the global Catholic community.

Similarly, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, described the emergence of Pope Leo XIV as a profound blessing and a sign of divine guidance in today’s troubled world.

“I wholeheartedly congratulate His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, on his election as the Supreme Pontiff and spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide,” Obi stated.

He praised the College of Cardinals for demonstrating spiritual wisdom and fidelity to sacred tradition, and commended the global Catholic faithful for their prayers during the papal conclave.

Obi described the Pope’s inaugural address as “reassuring and inspiring,” highlighting its emphasis on humility, justice, peace, and solidarity with the vulnerable. He lauded Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral and legal experience, noting his service as a missionary, canon lawyer, and former Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

“As a firm believer in moral leadership, I pray that his pontificate will be marked by deep spiritual renewal, courageous dialogue, unwavering service to humanity, and fidelity to the Gospel message,” Obi said.

He concluded by praying for God’s guidance on the new Pontiff as he leads the Church through contemporary global challenges.