President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria joined fellow global leaders in Rome on Sunday for the inauguration of the new Bishop of Rome and head of the Roman Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The solemn occasion, held at the iconic St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, marked the formal installation of the new pontiff and attracted dignitaries from across the world.
During the inaugural Mass, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful homily that addressed key global issues. He made a heartfelt appeal concerning the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating, “the martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen.” His words echoed the growing international calls for an end to the devastating conflict that has stretched on with heavy humanitarian tolls.
Beyond the war, Pope Leo used his address to highlight deeper social and moral challenges confronting the world. He condemned rising global inequality, autocratic tendencies, and systems that marginalize the poor. “Hatred, violence, prejudice, the fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the earth’s resources and marginalises the poorest” must be confronted, he stated.
Following the service, Pope Leo XIV greeted attending world leaders in St. Peter’s Square. President Tinubu was among those who had a personal interaction with the pontiff, engaging briefly in a conversation during their handshake. The moment symbolized Nigeria’s recognition of the importance of the global moral and spiritual leadership the papacy provides.
Other leaders present at the ceremony included U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who also shook hands with the Pope. The gathering served as both a religious and diplomatic milestone, as leaders from diverse nations came together in solidarity, reflecting shared hopes for global peace, unity, and justice.
