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  • Buhari mourns Pope Francis, describes him as a friend to the poor, migrants

    Buhari mourns Pope Francis, describes him as a friend to the poor, migrants

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, describing the late pontiff as a global moral force whose compassion and commitment to the poor, migrants, and interfaith unity left an indelible mark on the world.

    In a statement released through his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, on Monday, the former Nigerian leader joined millions of Christians around the world in mourning the Pope, who passed away on Easter Monday.

    Buhari praised Pope Francis for his exemplary leadership of the Catholic Church, highlighting his dedication to the welfare of the weak and displaced.

    “Christians in Nigeria and all over the world would miss the exemplary leadership of the Church by a Pope who served the poor and the weak, and cared much about migrants and refugees,” Buhari said.

    The former president noted the late pontiff’s relentless efforts in promoting harmony between Islam and Christianity, two of the world’s major faiths.

    Read Also: Pope Francis championed global peace and unity, says Speaker Abbas

    “He was a Pope who strove to build a beneficial, complementary relationship between the followers of the world’s two greatest religions, Islam and Christianity,” he added.

    Reflecting on the Pope’s final public appeal for peace, Buhari referenced Francis’s call for an end to hostilities in Gaza just hours before his passing.

    “Just hours before his demise, he made a call for an end to the war in Gaza. I hope Israel and Hamas will heed this call as a final respect to the Pope who had the distinction of bringing climate change to the Vatican and recognising the Palestinian State,” he said.

    The former President also expressed hope that the next leader of the Catholic Church would continue Pope Francis’s legacy of humility, social justice, and advocacy for global peace.

    Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit and Latin American to lead the Catholic Church. 

    He was widely respected for his progressive stances on social issues and his efforts to reform the Vatican bureaucracy.

    His death has sparked a global outpouring of tributes from world leaders, religious figures, and humanitarian organisations.

  • Pope Francis championed global peace and unity, says Speaker Abbas

    Pope Francis championed global peace and unity, says Speaker Abbas

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen has described the late Cathy Pontif, Pope Francis as a towering spiritual leader and a tireless advocate for global peace, compassion, and human dignity.

    In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Pope at the age of 88, 

    Speaker Abbas condole the Catholic Church, the global Christian community, and the Holy See.

    The Speaker said Pope Francis devoted his life to the service of God and humanity, using his papacy to bridge divides, uplift the poor, and call the world to a higher moral consciousness.

     “He was not just a religious leader,” the Speaker said, “but a beacon of hope and a global statesman who stood for peace, unity, and the common good.”

    He said even in his final public appearance during the Easter Mass at the Vatican, the Pope continued his impassioned call for an end to conflicts across the globe — a defining feature of his pontificate. “From war-torn regions to forgotten corners of the world,” he added, “Pope Francis never ceased to raise his voice for justice, mercy, and reconciliation.”

    Speaker Abbas acknowledged Pope Francis’s enduring legacies: his unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalised, his call for ecological responsibility through Laudato Si’, and his emphasis on mercy, inclusion, and the need for a Church that heals. “He changed the tone of the papacy — making it more pastoral, more human, more accessible.”

    “I join Christians, particularly the Catholic faithful across the world, to mourn the passing of this extraordinary leader, a unifier, and a peacemaker, who used his God-given gift of leadership to inspire faith, hope, and love,” the Speaker stated.

    Read Also: Pope Francis’ death a monumental loss to Christian faith, says Kalu

    “Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has made transformative contributions to the Church and Christendom at large. He led an exemplary life marked by humility, simplicity, and an unwavering dedication to God and the welfare of humanity.”

    “As we grieve the loss of this holy man, we remember his courageous voice, his tireless prayers for peace, his outreach to the world’s most vulnerable, and the moral clarity he brought to our troubled times. May his legacy continue to inspire leaders — religious and political alike — to pursue justice, compassion, and the common good.”

  • FG condoles Catholic Church over passing of Pope Francis

    FG condoles Catholic Church over passing of Pope Francis

    The federal government has expressed sadness over the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

    Pope Francis died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.

    A statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the late Pope as 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. 

    The statement, which was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated: “Nigeria commiserates with the teeming 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.

    “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.”

  • Meet African Cardinals who could be the next Pope

    Meet African Cardinals who could be the next Pope

    As the world grieves the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church finds itself at a defining crossroads with the selection of its next spiritual leader.

    The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, marking the beginning of the process to elect his successor.

    While preparations for his funeral are underway, attention has swiftly shifted to the list of possible successors, with two African Cardinals—Peter Turkson of Ghana and Robert Sarah of Guinea—emerging as prominent contenders.

    Cardinal Peter Turkson

    Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential Catholic figures. Born in Ghana, Turkson became the Archbishop of Cape Coast in 1992 under Pope John Paul II and was elevated to cardinal in 2003, becoming the first Ghanaian to hold the title.

    Over the years, Turkson has been at the forefront of Vatican conversations on social justice, climate change, and human rights. He has served as President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and later became the first Prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development, a role created by Pope Francis.

    Read Also: Pope Francis’ death a monumental loss to Christian faith, says Kalu

    Turkson is known for championing a more inclusive and compassionate Church, addressing global issues like poverty and environmental degradation while holding moderately progressive views on matters such as homosexuality. His election would mark a historic moment, as he would become the first Black African pope.

    Cardinal Robert Sarah

    At 79, Cardinal Robert Sarah stands as a strong voice for Catholic orthodoxy. Born in Guinea, Sarah has had a distinguished career within the Vatican, serving as Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments from 2014 until his retirement in 2021.

    Throughout his tenure, Sarah became known for his unwavering defence of traditional Catholic liturgy and doctrine, including his opposition to same-sex marriage, abortion, and modern gender ideologies. He has also publicly criticised Islamic extremism, positioning himself as a defender of both Catholic identity and global stability.

    In 2016, he sparked debate by advocating for priests to celebrate Mass facing the altar, a practice largely abandoned after the Second Vatican Council. His conservative theology and commitment to preserving the Church’s ancient traditions have earned him both respect and criticism within the Catholic world.

  • Pope Francis’ death a monumental loss to Christian faith, says Kalu

    Pope Francis’ death a monumental loss to Christian faith, says Kalu

    Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has mourned the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis.

    Kalu, in a statement, described Pope Francis as a beacon of hope, peace, and humility whose papacy touched billions of lives across the globe.

    “The passing of Pope Francis is a monumental loss to the Christian faith and the world at large.

    “He was a true shepherd of peace, love, and compassion. His messages of unity and selfless service resonated deeply with both the faithful and those outside the Catholic Church,” Kalu said.

    The lawmaker, who is a devout Catholic, recalled the Pope’s commitment to justice, inclusion, and service to humanity, noting that his teachings will continue to guide the church and the world for generations to come.

    “As we mourn the loss of this great spiritual leader, we pray for the repose of his soul and strength to the global Catholic community during this difficult time,” he added.

    Senator Kalu extended his condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic faithful, and all those touched by the exemplary life and ministry of Pope Francis.

  • Minister Musawa mourns passing of Pope Francis

    Minister Musawa mourns passing of Pope Francis

    The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has expressed deep sadness at the news of the death of Pope Francis, whose death occurred early Easter Monday.

    Pope Francis was the spiritual leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics and reportedly died at 7.35 am at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta

    He was 88 years old. 

    The minister, in a statement by her media aide, Dr. Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, said the Pontiff’s life transcended the Vatican and religion, touching hearts globally.

    Musawa described Pope Francis as a champion of peace, unity, and reconciliation, noting his efforts to bridge gaps between warring nations and religions.

    She stated, “I mourn the loss of a global leader who embodied compassion, humility, and a commitment to social justice. Pope Francis’s unwavering dedication to the marginalised and his call for a more inclusive world inspired countless individuals.

    “Pope Francis was compassionate, a Talakawa (voice of the poor and downtrodden), a humanitarian, an advocate for peace and unity. He championed the reconciliation of warring nations and religions.

    “I extend my deepest condolences to the Catholic faithful worldwide and the global community. May his legacy of love, compassion, and unity continue to inspire us all toward a more just and equitable society. May his soul rest in peace.”

  • Tinubu urges global action to honour Pope Francis’ legacy

    Tinubu urges global action to honour Pope Francis’ legacy

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the global community to honour the legacy of the late Pope Francis not merely with words of tribute, but through meaningful actions that embody the values he championed — uplifting the poor, fostering unity in communities, and upholding human dignity.

    “As we mourn the late Pontiff, let us also celebrate his legacy. Let us honour him not with words alone but with action: by lifting those who are down, healing our communities, and defending the dignity of every person,” President Tinubu said in a tribute he personally released on Monday.

    The President’s remarks came in the wake of the passing of Pope Francis in the early hours of Easter Monday, a day after he delivered the traditional Easter Sunday blessing at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

    Tinubu, who in his 2025 Easter message expressed joy at seeing the Pontiff’s public appearance, described the timing of his death as a “sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope for Christians.”

    Tinubu hailed the late Pope as “a humble servant of God, tireless champion of the poor, and guiding light for millions,” noting that his spiritual leadership had transcended the boundaries of the Church to touch lives across the globe.

    “He served the Church and the Master of the Church until the end. In 2013, he stepped onto the global stage with a message of mercy, urging us to see the face of Christ in the marginalised, the refugees, the migrants, and the forgotten”, the President said, reflecting on Pope Francis’ enduring commitment to his faith and calling.

    President Tinubu praised the Pope’s unrelenting advocacy for social justice, environmental stewardship, and peace, describing him as “an instrument of peace who deeply embodied the message of Christ: love for God and love for humanity.”

    “In a time of division, he built bridges between faiths and between the rich and the poor. He was a steadfast advocate for the developing world, where he consistently spoke against economic injustice and ceaselessly prayed for peace and stability in troubled regions”, he said.

    The President commended the Pope’s encyclicals and pastoral letters for providing not just doctrinal guidance but also spiritual clarity in a fast-changing and complex world.

    Read Also: Tinubu returns from Paris today – Presidency

    “His encyclicals were not only doctrinal and seminal but also timely and relevant. He charted a path of renewal for all humanity through his words and deeds”, Tinubu noted.

    Reflecting on the Pope’s voice in the global fight against climate change, Tinubu said the world had lost “its most trenchant voice for justice and action” in that area.

    “May the good Lord, whom he served with all his might, receive him into His eternal bosom,” he said.

    President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Nigerian government and people to the Catholic Church, the global Catholic community, and Christians around the world.

    “May God Almighty grant His beloved servant eternal rest,” the President said.

  • FULL LIST: 10 Cardinals who may be the next Pope

    FULL LIST: 10 Cardinals who may be the next Pope

    Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church stands at a pivotal crossroads as it prepares for a new era of leadership. As the first pope from Latin America, Francis left a lasting impact by championing social justice, environmental stewardship, and a more inclusive vision of the Church.

    Now, the College of Cardinals is set to convene at the Vatican for a conclave that will not only select the next spiritual leader of 1.37 billion Catholics but also influence the Church’s path on doctrine, transparency, and its engagement with the global faithful.

    Among the most talked-about contenders are ten prominent churchmen from around the globe, reflecting the Church’s diversity and evolving priorities. 

    From progressive voices like Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines to Vatican diplomat Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, the field includes a mix of reformists and conservatives. 

    Notably, Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana also stands out, carrying hopes for Africa’s growing Catholic population and a papacy rooted in social justice and global inclusivity.

    Here are Cardinals who might be the next Pope  

    1. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
    Age: 67

    Titles/Roles:

    Cardinal-Bishop of San Felice da Cantalice a Centocelle (pro hac vice)

    President, Catholic Biblical Federation

    Grand Chancellor, Pontifical Urbaniana University

    Member of several Roman Curia departments

    Profile: Popular progressive voice, known for pastoral charisma, evangelization, and close ties to Pope Francis.

    2. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
    Age: 70

    Roles:

    Secretary of State (since 2013)

    Member, Council of Cardinals (since 2014)

    Profile: Vatican’s top diplomat, moderate in theology, deeply embedded in Curia politics.

    3. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
    Age: 72

    Roles:

    Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest

    Primate of Hungary (since 2003)

    Profile: Leading conservative theologian, canon law expert, seen as a guardian of doctrinal orthodoxy.

    4. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
    Age: 76

    Roles:

    Former Archbishop of St. Louis

    Former Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura (2008–2014)

    Patron, Sovereign Military Order of Malta (2014–2023)

    Profile: Vocal critic of Pope Francis, staunch traditionalist, well-known in conservative circles.

    5. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
    Age: 69

    Role:

    Archbishop of Bologna (since 2015)

    Profile: Seen as a bridge-builder, linked to the Sant’Egidio Community, with progressive leanings and a reputation for diplomacy and dialogue.

    6. Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (Netherlands)
    Age: 71

    Roles:

    Archbishop of Utrecht (since 2007)

    Background: Medical doctor and moral theologian

    Profile: Conservative, bioethics expert, outspoken on traditional Church teachings.

    7. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)
    Age: 68

    Role:

    Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops (since 2020)

    Profile: Central to Pope Francis’s synodal reform, regarded as a thoughtful moderate with strong administrative capabilities.

    8. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
    Age: 76

    Roles:

    Head, Pontifical Academies of Sciences

    Former Prefect, Dicastery for Integral Human Development

    Former President, Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace

    Profile: Influential in issues of social justice, climate, and African Church development.

    9. Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy)
    Age: 83 (not eligible to vote in the conclave)

    Roles:

    Archbishop of Milan (2011–2017)

    Former Patriarch of Venice

    Profile: Philosopher-theologian, long-time papal contender with traditional roots.

    10. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)
    Age: 59

    Role:

    Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem (since 2020)

    Profile: Expert on interfaith relations in the Holy Land, Franciscan background, rising profile in recent years.

  • FULL LIST: 11 Longest-reigning Popes in Catholic history

    FULL LIST: 11 Longest-reigning Popes in Catholic history

    The death of Pope Francis on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 88 marks the end of a deeply consequential 12-year papacy that prioritised mercy, reformband global outreach. As the world mourns the first Latin American pope, his passing invites reflection not only on his legacy but also on the extraordinary figures who have held the papal office across centuries, some for decades, during the most defining moments in Church history.

    From Saint Peter, whose martyrdom in Rome began the unbroken line of succession, to John Paul II’s charismatic leadership in the modern age, these long-reigning pontiffs have steered the Church through times of profound transformation.

    Below is a look at the longest-serving popes, whose time in office shaped the heart and direction of Catholicism across the ages.

    1. Saint Peter (c. 30–64 AD or 33–67 AD)

    Regarded as the first Bishop of Rome and the foundational figure of the papacy, Saint Peter is believed to have led the Church for approximately 34 years. Though the exact dates are uncertain, his martyrdom in Rome marks the beginning of the papal lineage.

    2. Pope Pius IX (1846–1878)

    With a reign lasting 31 years, 7 months, and 23 days (11,560 days), Pius IX holds the record for the longest verified papacy. He presided over a time of great political and theological upheaval, defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, and convened the First Vatican Council, which proclaimed papal infallibility.

    3. Pope John Paul II (1978–2005)

    Serving 26 years, 5 months, and 17 days (9,665 days), John Paul II was a transformative global figure. His papacy included extensive travels, strong anti-communist advocacy, interfaith dialogue, and influential theological writings, marking him as one of the most consequential modern popes.

    4. Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903)

    Reigning for 25 years, 5 months, and 1 day (9,281 days), Leo XIII was known for his intellectual depth and diplomatic skill. His encyclical Rerum Novarum laid the groundwork for modern Catholic social teaching, addressing labor rights and economic justice.

    5. Pope Pius VI (1775–1799)

    His pontificate of 24 years, 6 months, and 15 days (8,962 days) spanned the revolutionary period in Europe. Pius VI witnessed the rise of secularism during the French Revolution and was eventually taken prisoner by French forces, dying in captivity.

    6. Pope Adrian I (772–795)

    With a reign of 23 years, 10 months, and 25 days (8,729 days), Adrian I was a close ally of Charlemagne and played a significant role in shaping the Church’s temporal power in the early medieval period.

    7. Pope Pius VII (1800–1823)

    Pius VII ruled for 23 years, 5 months, and 7 days (8,560 days). His papacy was defined by his confrontations with Napoleon Bonaparte, during which he was imprisoned, and by his eventual restoration of Church authority following the Napoleonic Wars.

    8. Pope Alexander III (1159–1181)

    Alexander III led the Church for 21 years, 11 months, and 24 days (8,029 days). His time as pope was marked by enduring conflict with the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa and efforts to uphold papal independence and authority.

    Read Also: Popes to be declared saints next year

    9. Pope Sylvester I (314–335)

    With a papacy of 21 years, 11 months, and 1 day (8,005 days), Sylvester I served during Emperor Constantine’s reign. Although not directly involved, his tenure coincided with the First Council of Nicaea, and he witnessed the Church’s legitimization in the Roman Empire.

    10. Pope Leo I (440–461)

    Known as “Leo the Great,” he served for 21 years, 1 month, and 13 days (7,713 days). A key theological voice and a Doctor of the Church, Leo I famously persuaded Attila the Hun to turn back from invading Rome.

    11. Pope Urban VIII (1623–1644)

    His reign lasted 20 years, 11 months, and 24 days (7,664 days). Urban VIII was a significant patron of the arts and sciences, but also controversially oversaw the trial of Galileo. His papacy reflected the complex intersection of faith and reason in the early modern era.

  • EXPLAINER: How a new Pope would emerge

    EXPLAINER: How a new Pope would emerge

    The passing of Pope Francis at 88 sets in motion the centuries-old process of electing a new Pope.

    The election of a new pope is a rigorous process involving several stages and rituals.

    Here is how it works: 

    The College of Cardinals, comprising ordained bishops and Vatican officials, gather in Rome to elect a new pope. Only cardinals under 80 can vote, and they are required to take an oath of absolute secrecy. 

    The cardinals are then locked inside the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, where they deliberate and vote on potential candidates. A two-thirds majority vote is required to elect a new pope.

    During the voting process, ballot papers are distributed and cardinals write the name of their chosen candidate. The votes are then counted, and the papers are burned, producing smoke that is visible to onlookers outside. White smoke indicates that a new pope has been elected.

    Once a new pope is elected, they are asked to accept the election and choose a papal name. 

    For instance, Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, chose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, known for his devotion to poverty, simplicity, and care for the environment. 

    Read Also: FULL LIST: 10 Cardinals who may be the next Pope

    This naming tradition allows the pope to symbolically connect with a saint’s values or legacy, shaping their papal identity. Other popes have similarly chosen names that reflect their aspirations or the direction they wish to lead the Church.

    The new pope is then fitted with papal robes, and the announcement is made from St. Peter’s Basilica balcony. The new pope makes their first public appearance, gives a blessing, and begins their papacy.

    The entire process is designed to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the election, with strict rules in place to prevent external influences and maintain secrecy.