President Bola Tinubu, former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, were among the dignitaries and international leaders present at the Vatican on Sunday for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome.
Despite being a Muslim, Tinubu’s participation underscored his administration’s commitment to religious tolerance and national unity. Fayemi and Obi, both devout Catholics and Papal knights, reunited at the Vatican more than a decade after attending Pope Francis’ inauguration in 2013.
Obi took to his X handle to reflect on the event, calling it a profoundly spiritual experience. “Dr Fayemi and I stood beneath the same dome once again, reflecting on our journey from governorship to witnessing this sacred moment in the Church,” he wrote.
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Obi, who maintains a strong relationship with the Vatican through his work with Scholas Occurrentes—a global platform for promoting education and peace—described the event as more than symbolic, calling it a reminder of the Church’s mission. He noted that Pope Leo XIV’s message emphasized supporting the poor and taking real action as the true measure of faith.
“The Holy Father challenged us to uplift the forgotten and restore dignity to the vulnerable,” Obi said, adding that he prayed for Nigeria and reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for all Nigerians.
At one point during the event, Fayemi noticed President Tinubu and invited Obi to greet him. As they approached, Fayemi jokingly said to Tinubu: “Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honoring the Pope with your presence.” Tinubu responded with humor, saying, “I should be welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation,” prompting laughter and agreement from Obi.
In a statement shared on X, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, emphasized Tinubu’s inclusive approach to governance. He noted that Tinubu, leading a religiously diverse country, remains committed to unity and fairness for all faiths.
“Though tribe, tongue, and religion may differ, in nationhood we stand united,” Dare wrote. He added that Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican, alongside four prominent Nigerian clerics, symbolizes his dedication to inclusive leadership.
Photographs and footage from the ceremony showed Tinubu sharing a handshake and brief conversation with the new Pope, highlighting the friendly relationship between Nigeria and the Vatican.
