On Sunday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held a significant diplomatic meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican City in Rome, marking a historic moment for Nigeria’s relationship with the Catholic Church.
Tinubu, who arrived in Rome on Saturday, was officially invited by the Vatican to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV — the 267th Bishop of Rome and the newly elected leader of the global Catholic community.
The Nigerian President joined a distinguished group of world leaders and dignitaries at the inaugural mass, held to mark the beginning of the new papacy. His presence underscores Nigeria’s intention to deepen diplomatic and interfaith collaboration with the Vatican.
Upon his arrival, President Tinubu was warmly welcomed and hosted at a private dinner by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, highlighting the significance of the visit and the respect accorded to Nigeria.
Pope Leo XIV was elected by the College of Cardinals after the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. His election marks the start of a new chapter for the Catholic Church worldwide.
The meeting between President Tinubu and the new pontiff is seen as an opportunity to build stronger cooperation on global issues such as interfaith harmony, peace efforts, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability.
While the specifics of their private conversation remain undisclosed, presidential aides described the encounter as warm, meaningful, and focused on mutual progress.