President Tinubu in a handshake with Pope Leo XIV shortly after his inauguration in Rome, on Sunday
By Ade Iyamoye
President Bola Tinubu met briefly with Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, moments after the pontiff’s inaugural Mass.
The meeting, marked by a warm handshake and short conversation, came as the Nigerian leader joined over 150 world figures in witnessing the historic beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy.
The event drew an estimated 250,000 worshippers and dignitaries, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, made history as the first American-born pope with dual citizenship in the United States and Peru.
His message during the Mass echoed a call to unity, compassion, and defense of the marginalized.
He urged the world to renounce hatred, discrimination, and environmental abuse.
President Tinubu’s presence underscored Nigeria’s commitment to global diplomacy and interfaith dialogue, reflecting the country’s stance on peaceful religious coexistence and strategic international alliances.
