Tinubu And World Leaders Congratulates Pope Leo XIV, Hails Catholic Church

President Bola Tinubu has joined leaders across the world in congratulating the Roman Catholic Church on the election of Pope Leo XIV, the new head of the global Catholic community.

KanyiDaily recalls that Robert Francis Prevost was chosen by cardinals from around the world and officially became the new Pope on Thursday, April 9, making history as the first American to lead the Catholic Church.

Large crowds gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica to witness the moment Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony and gave his first public address. He greeted the world with a message of peace and unity.

“To all people, wherever they are, to all peoples, to the whole Earth, peace be with you,” he said, smiling. He encouraged global cooperation, dialogue, and building bridges among different communities.

His speech was warmly received, especially when he spoke in Spanish and paid tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away last month.

Speaking of his predecessor, He said, “We still keep in our ears that weak, but always courageous, voice of Pope Francis blessing Rome,” recalling his final Easter message.

Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need for a missionary Church—one that listens, connects, and remains open to others.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his congratulations to both the new Pope and the global Catholic community.

“The President felicitates the Conclave for electing the American Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome. President Tinubu rejoices with the leadership of and congregants of the Catholic Church in Nigeria on the historic election of the new Pontiff, whose message of faith and hope already resonates across the globe, with a reassurance from the scriptures of a more peaceful world,” the statement partly read.

Tinubu also acknowledged Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with the Vatican, especially in areas such as education, healthcare, peacebuilding, and human development.

He expressed confidence that the Pope’s leadership would further promote values of compassion, love, and service to the less privileged.

The Nigerian president prayed for God to grant the new Pope strength, wisdom, and good health as he begins this important role.

Leaders around the world have also reacted to the election of Pope Leo XIV with messages of support, unity, and hope.

President Donald Trump (USA) called it “a great honor” to see the first American Pope and said he looks forward to meeting him. He wrote:

“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”

President Gustavo Petro (Colombia) hoped Pope Leo would become a strong voice for migrants, especially Latin Americans facing hardships in the U.S. He wrote:

“I hope he becomes a great leader for migrant peoples around the world, and I hope he encourages our Latin American migrant brothers and sisters, humiliated today in the United States. It’s time for them to organize.’

President Isaac Herzog (Israel) expressed a desire to deepen ties with the Vatican and build interfaith relationships. He wrote:

“We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world. May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples.”

President Vladimir Putin (Russia) said Russia and the Vatican share common Christian values and looked forward to continued cooperation. He wrote:

“I am confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us.”

Chancellor Friedrich Merz (Germany) said the Pope offers much-needed hope and direction in difficult times. He said:

“Through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these challenging times.”

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (Spain) hoped the new papacy would support dialogue and human rights around the world. He said:

“May his pontificate contribute to strengthening dialogue and the defence of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity.”

President Andrzej Duda (Poland) emphasized shared values and peace, pledging continued support from Poland. He said:

“Please accept the assurance of the readiness of the Republic of Poland to further strengthen these unique bonds — in the name of shared values, responsibility for the common good and the strengthening of peace in the world.”

Ursula von der Leyen (EU) wished the Pope a tenure marked by peace and inspiration for both Catholics and the broader world. He said:

“We wish that his pontificate be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue.”

With Pope Leo XIV beginning his leadership, many see this moment as a fresh chapter for the Catholic Church—one rooted in dialogue, compassion, and global unity.

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