Pope’s farewell: Tinubu’s delegation choice divides Nigerians

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is leading a five-member Nigerian delegation to Pope Francis’ burial ceremony.

President Bola Tinubu appointed Akpabio to represent Nigeria at the burial scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Akpabio, during a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, paid his respects where the Pope is lying in state.

He posted a heartfelt tribute on his official Facebook page on Friday to honour the late pontiff.

He wrote, “As Nigeria’s delegation leader, I paid tribute to our departed Pope for President Tinubu and Nigerian people.”

The Nigerian delegation includes Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.

Other members are Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.

Also in the team are Archbishop Matthew Kukah of Sokoto Diocese and Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja Diocese.

The composition of the Nigerian delegation was confirmed in a statement by Presidential Adviser on Information, Bayo Onanuga.

The delegation also has the responsibility to deliver President Tinubu’s condolence letter to the Acting Head of Vatican.

Earlier, President Bola Tinubu joined global leaders to mourn the passing of the spiritual head of the Catholic Church.

Tinubu described Pope Francis as a “humble servant of God” and “a tireless champion of the poor and vulnerable.”

The President also praised the late Pope as “a guiding light for millions” across the world.

In his condolence message, Tinubu noted that the Pope’s passing came shortly after Easter celebrations.

He described it as “a sacred return to his Maker during a season of renewed Christian hope.”

Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m., Vatican authorities confirmed.

The 88-year-old pontiff died in his residence at Santa Marta following a cerebral stroke.

Reports stated that the stroke led to coma and “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.”

The Vatican’s release of the death certificate revealed Pope Francis battled with multiple undisclosed health conditions.

His underlying ailments included arterial hypertension, multiple bronchiectasis, and Type 2 diabetes.

The late Pope’s health issues had been kept away from the public until after his death.

Pope Francis’ burial is expected to attract world leaders, Catholic faithful, and dignitaries from across the globe.

Nigeria’s participation underscores the strong diplomatic and religious ties between Nigeria and the Vatican City.

The Nigerian government expressed its profound sorrow and solidarity with the global Catholic community.

Pope Francis was widely celebrated for his efforts towards social justice, peace, and interfaith dialogue.

His passing marks the end of an era for Catholics and admirers of his humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Akpabio’s delegation is expected to participate fully in all the burial activities scheduled at the Vatican.

The Nigerian government assured that Pope Francis’ legacy would continue to inspire generations in Nigeria and beyond.

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