President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday exchanged warm pleasantries with His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, at the Vatican during the official Mass marking the beginning of the new pontificate.
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President Tinubu In A Warm Handshake and Fraternal Conversation With Pope Leo XIV At The Vatican (Peter Obi Nowhere In Sight) pic.twitter.com/qH8X7NqTZb
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The brief but symbolic encounter came as President Tinubu joined world leaders and dignitaries in Rome to witness the solemn inauguration of the new head of the Catholic Church.
President Tinubu, who is currently on a diplomatic visit to the Vatican, was seen interacting with the Pontiff in a gesture that reflected mutual respect and global goodwill. The meeting adds to Nigeria’s growing international engagements aimed at promoting peace, unity, and cooperation across religious and cultural divides.
Presidential spokesperson, Sunday Dare, in a statement via his verified X handle @SundayDareSD, affirmed that President Tinubu’s presence at the event exemplified his unwavering commitment to religious inclusivity.
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“President Tinubu arrives at the Vatican this morning and joins the official Mass. Tinubu leads a multi-religious nation and remains unbiased against any. His creed: though tribe, tongue and religion may differ, in nationhood we stand united,” Dare stated.
He added that the President’s visit alongside four senior Nigerian clergymen underscores his determination to serve all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation.
The Nigerian leader’s participation in the historic ceremony reinforces his administration’s broader commitment to interfaith diplomacy, religious tolerance, and strengthening Nigeria’s ties with the Vatican and the international community.
