President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja after a two-day visit to the Vatican City in Rome, where he attended the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
In Rome, Tinubu held talks with Vatican authorities on diplomatic and religious matters, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to interfaith harmony.
During the Pope’s inaugural Mass on Sunday, Tinubu joined other world leaders to witness the solemn ceremony, after which he had a personal time with the new Bishop of Rome, exchanging pleasantries and having a brief chat.
After the inauguration, the President met with members of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by their President, who is also the Bishop of Owerri, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji.
During the meeting, President Tinubu called on all Nigerians, especially spiritual leaders, to turn the nation’s religious and cultural diversities into a source of strength and prosperity, rather than tools for division and conflicts.
A statement issued on Sunday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted President Tinubu emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation among Nigerians, saying: “If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress.”
Reports revered that the President’s visit to the Vatican was a significant diplomatic engagement, marking a moment of historic importance. Upon his return to Abuja, Tinubu was received by senior members of his administration, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the APC National Chairman.
