Senate President Godswill Akpabio is leading a high-ranking Nigerian delegation to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis, the beloved leader of the Catholic Church. The event, set to take place in Vatican City on Saturday, has drawn leaders and representatives from around the world to pay their respects to the late pontiff, who passed away recently.
The delegation, comprising five notable figures, was officially announced in a statement from the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released on Friday.
In addition to Akpabio, the delegation includes significant political and religious figures. Among them is Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama, the Archbishop of Abuja Diocese.
The team will attend the funeral on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people. Their presence highlights the deep respect and admiration that Nigeria holds for Pope Francis and the important role he played in global peace, unity, and humanitarian work.
**Message of Condolence from Nigeria**
As part of their duties, the delegation will formally deliver a letter from President Tinubu, offering the country’s heartfelt sympathy and condolences on the death of Pope Francis. The letter will be presented to the Acting Head of the Vatican in a gesture of solidarity and respect for the Pope’s passing.
The funeral of Pope Francis is an international event that has drawn leaders, dignitaries, and people from all walks of life to the Vatican. Nigeria’s participation underscores the country’s commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic ties with the Vatican and the Catholic community worldwide.
On Monday, President Tinubu had also joined millions of Catholics and other Christians around the world in mourning the Pope’s death. In his statement, President Tinubu described Pope Francis as “a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the poor, and a guiding light for millions.” The president further expressed his gratitude for the Pope’s impactful role in promoting peace, justice, and compassion.
**Pope Francis’ Legacy**
Pope Francis, who became the 266th pope of the Catholic Church in 2013, was widely known for his advocacy for the poor, his calls for global peace, and his stance on environmental issues. He was also renowned for his efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding, making him a beloved figure across religious and cultural boundaries.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis took steps to reform the Vatican, often making bold and unconventional decisions aimed at making the Church more accessible and transparent. His death marks the end of an era for the Catholic Church, and his legacy is likely to resonate for years to come.
As the world prepares to say its final farewell to Pope Francis, nations, including Nigeria, are coming together to honor his life and contributions to humanity. Pope Francis’ passing has not only affected Catholics but also those of other faiths who admired his efforts to build a more compassionate and just world.
**Nigeria’s Strong Ties with the Catholic Church**
The Nigerian delegation’s attendance at the Pope’s funeral is also a reflection of the strong and ongoing relationship between Nigeria and the Vatican. The Catholic Church in Nigeria has played a significant role in the nation’s social, educational, and healthcare systems. Many Nigerian citizens, particularly in the northern and southeastern regions, have deep ties to the Catholic faith, and the Church’s presence in the country has been a source of spiritual guidance and community support.
Archbishop Kukah, one of the key figures in the Nigerian delegation, has long been a prominent voice in the Church and a respected leader. He is known for his advocacy for peace, social justice, and the welfare of the Nigerian people. His participation in the delegation further emphasizes the importance of the Catholic Church’s presence in Nigerian society.
As the Nigerian delegation prepares to honor Pope Francis in Vatican City, the country joins the global community in reflecting on the Pope’s life and legacy. The funeral will serve as a moment of collective remembrance, not just for Catholics, but for all those who were touched by Pope Francis’ vision of peace, unity, and compassion for the most vulnerable.
