Former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, describing it as a profound loss not only for the Catholic Church but also for the global poor, migrants, and refugees whom the late pontiff championed.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, a day symbolic of hope and renewal for Christians around the world.
Reacting to the news of Pope Francis’ death, Buhari said he joined global Christian communities in mourning the pontiff.
In a condolence message signed by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari commended the late Pope for his unwavering commitment to the vulnerable and his efforts to bridge divides between the world’s major religions.
“He was a Pope who strove to build a beneficial, complementary relationship between the followers of the world’s two greatest religions — Islam and Christianity,” Buhari said.
Buhari also noted the Pope’s last public message, in which he appealed for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
“Just hours before his demise, he made a call for an end to the war in Gaza. I hope Israel and Hamas will heed this call in final respect to the Pope who had the distinction of bringing climate change to the Vatican, and recognising the Palestinian State.”
IN POPE FRANCIS’S DEATH, THE POOR AND MIGRANTS HAVE LOST A FRIEND
Former President Muhammadu Buhari joins Christians all across the world in mourning the demise of the Head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, who departed the earth on Easter Monday.
In a reaction to the news…
— Muhammadu Buhari (@MBuhari) April 21, 2025
The former president expressed hope that Pope Francis’ successor would uphold and expand upon the values and initiatives championed during his papacy.
Pope Francis’ death marks the end of a decade-long papacy defined by humility, social justice advocacy, and interfaith outreach.
His influence was felt far beyond the Catholic world, resonating in global conversations on climate, peace, and human dignity.
The former President wished for a new leader who would build on the inspiring legacies of Pope Francis.
