NIGERIA: Akpabio Leads Nigerian Delegation To Vatican For Pope Francis’ Funeral

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Nigerian Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is leading a five-member delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend the funeral of Pope Francis.

The revered head of the Roman Catholic Church passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

The high-profile Nigerian delegation, which arrived in Vatican City ahead of the funeral slated for Saturday, reflects Nigeria’s solidarity with the global Catholic community during this solemn moment.

The delegation comprises Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese; and Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama of the Abuja Archdiocese.

According to a statement issued Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the delegation will deliver a condolence letter from President Tinubu to the Acting Head of the Vatican, expressing Nigeria’s deep sorrow over the Pope’s passing.

In his tribute earlier this week, President Tinubu hailed Pope Francis as “a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the poor, and a guiding light for millions.”

The President noted the spiritual symbolism of the Pope’s death occurring just a day after Easter Sunday, describing it as “a sacred return to his Maker,” and a moment that offers renewed hope to Christians around the world.

Pope Francis, known for his progressive stance on global justice, interfaith dialogue, and humility, led the Catholic Church since 2013 and remained active until his final days, even presiding over Easter celebrations just 24 hours before his passing.