Senate President Godswill Akpabio is leading a five-member Nigerian delegation to Pope Francis’ funeral, scheduled to take place in Vatican City on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The delegation was put together to represent Nigeria and pay respects following the passing of the head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis.
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Joining Akpabio on the official Nigerian delegation to Pope Francis’ funeral are Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu; President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji; Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah; and Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Ignatius Ayua Kaigama.
According to the statement, the delegation will present a letter of condolence on behalf of President Tinubu to the Vatican, expressing the nation’s deep sorrow and sympathy. The President described Pope Francis as “a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the poor, and a guiding light for millions.”
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, just a day after leading the Easter Sunday service. His death came as a shock to the Catholic world, occurring so soon after such a significant religious celebration.
President Tinubu, in his earlier tribute, noted that the Pope’s passing just after Easter symbolized a sacred return to his Creator, bringing renewed hope and faith to Christians around the globe.
The Nigerian delegation to Pope Francis’ funeral will join other world leaders and religious figures in Vatican City to honor the life and legacy of the late Pope.
