President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined global dignitaries in Rome, Italy, on Sunday, where he met with the newly installed Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV, following the latter’s official inauguration mass at the Vatican.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that Tinubu had a brief handshake and conversation with the new Catholic Pope, who now leads over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.
The encounter occurred shortly after the installation ceremony held at the iconic St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Leo XIV, born Cardinal James O’Malley in the United States, officially succeeded Pope Francis and was formally recognized as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church during the high-profile event.
Several other world leaders were also in attendance, including United States Vice President J.D. Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Like President Tinubu, they each greeted the Pope as he concluded the inaugural mass.
The ceremony was marked by solemn religious rituals, hymns, and a homily delivered by the Pope, where he outlined his vision for the Church and the world.
Pope Leo XIV used the occasion to issue a powerful call for an end to the exploitation of natural resources and the marginalization of the poor.
He emphasized the need for justice, peace, and compassion in global leadership and urged the Church to become a transformational force in a deeply divided world.
He spoke about the critical role the Church must play in addressing inequality, environmental degradation, and widespread poverty.
His message struck a chord with many of the leaders and religious pilgrims who gathered at the square.
President Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican is seen as a sign of Nigeria’s continued engagement with international religious institutions and its support for interfaith dialogue.
Though the details of his conversation with Pope Leo XIV were not made public, diplomatic observers believe it was a gesture of goodwill and recognition of the Pope’s new spiritual mandate.
This meeting also comes as part of Tinubu’s broader European engagements, which include discussions on economic cooperation and security.
Many Nigerian Catholics have applauded the President’s participation in the historic event, viewing it as a unifying move for Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape.
It also underlines the country’s respect for global religious milestones and its desire to foster deeper ties with the Vatican.
