President Tinubu Appoints Akpabio to Head Nigerian Delegation to Pope Francis’ Funeral
In a move underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to global diplomacy and interfaith solidarity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Senate President Godswill Akpabio to lead the official Nigerian delegation to the funeral of His Holiness, Pope Francis. The solemn event, set to attract global dignitaries and religious leaders from around the world, will mark a historic moment as nations gather to pay their final respects to the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
The President’s decision to send a high-powered delegation led by the third most senior official in Nigeria reflects the country’s deep respect for Pope Francis and the pivotal role the Vatican plays in global peace, religious harmony, and humanitarian advocacy.
A Gesture of Respect and Global Solidarity
The death of Pope Francis, who will be remembered for his progressive stance on social issues, climate change, interfaith dialogue, and global justice, has resonated deeply across continents. In appointing Akpabio to represent Nigeria, Tinubu reaffirmed the nation’s role as a key voice in global religious discourse and a strategic partner in fostering global peace and cooperation.
A statement released by the Presidential Villa on Thursday described the appointment as “a solemn duty in the spirit of unity, peace, and mutual respect among nations.”
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Senate President Godswill Akpabio to lead the Nigerian delegation to the state funeral of His Holiness, Pope Francis,” the statement read. “This gesture not only expresses Nigeria’s condolences but also reinforces our shared commitment to global peace, tolerance, and interfaith unity.”
Akpabio: A Diplomatic Emissary in a Historic Moment
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who has long been an advocate of interreligious dialogue and peaceful coexistence, is expected to deliver a message of condolence from President Tinubu and the Nigerian people. His role will be crucial in conveying Nigeria’s solidarity with the Vatican and the international community during this period of mourning.
Sources within the National Assembly have confirmed that Akpabio is already preparing for the journey, coordinating with Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Vatican and other diplomatic channels to ensure the country is adequately represented at the landmark event.
Akpabio, a devout Christian himself, expressed deep sadness over the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as “a shepherd of compassion, a champion of peace, and a global moral compass who will be greatly missed.”
Nigeria’s Relationship with the Vatican
Nigeria maintains strong diplomatic and religious ties with the Vatican, and Pope Francis had previously expressed concern over the spate of violence and religious intolerance in parts of the country. His calls for peace and justice in Nigeria earned him widespread admiration among Christian communities across Africa.
Religious leaders and civil society groups in Nigeria have lauded Tinubu’s decision, noting that Akpabio’s leadership of the delegation reflects inclusivity and national unity.
“The Pope was not only a Catholic leader but a global figure who consistently spoke truth to power and fought for the downtrodden,” said Bishop Emmanuel Olayemi of the Nigerian Interfaith Council. “Nigeria’s presence at his funeral is both symbolic and necessary.”
A Global Gathering of Leaders
The funeral of Pope Francis is expected to draw heads of state, royalty, religious leaders, and diplomats from around the world. With security and ceremonial arrangements already in motion, the Vatican is preparing for one of the most significant global events in recent history.
Akpabio’s attendance alongside world leaders such as U.S. President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and African Union officials will further cement Nigeria’s relevance in global conversations, particularly in promoting religious tolerance, democratic values, and peacebuilding.
A Moment of Reflection for Nigeria
As the nation prepares for this international representation, analysts believe the appointment sends a strong message about Nigeria’s diplomatic maturity and its growing role in global affairs. The delegation, led by Akpabio, is expected to include representatives from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other key government institutions.
In a time when the world seeks healing, Pope Francis’ death offers nations like Nigeria an opportunity to reflect on the values of compassion, justice, and unity — principles the late Pontiff championed throughout his papacy.
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