The Federal Government expressed sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, at the age of 88.

FG, in a statement released by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa described the late pontiff as a global moral authority whose papacy was defined by humility, compassion, and a firm dedication to peace, justice, and human dignity.

The government extended its condolences to the Catholic Church in Nigeria and around the world, acknowledging the significant impact Pope Francis had during his time as the leader of the global Catholic community.

The statement noted that the Pope’s consistent advocacy for the poor, refugees, and victims of conflict deeply resonated in Nigeria, a country familiar with such challenges.

“The Federal Government expresses profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who departed this life on 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.

“The Holy Father was a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.

“Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss.

“Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalised; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges,” the statement read in part.

Pope Francis was praised for his 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, particularly towards Indigenous peoples, which Nigeria hailed as a powerful gesture of reconciliation.

His efforts in promoting peace in Africa and other conflict zones were also highlighted as evidence of his far-reaching pastoral mission.

In its tribute, FG extended sympathies to the Vatican and the people of Argentina, whom it described as having gifted the world with an extraordinary spiritual leader.

The country offered prayers for the repose of his soul and expressed hope that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and environmental care would continue to inspire future generations.

“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation.

“Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.

“In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.

“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure,” the statement concluded.

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