President Tinubu Returns to Abuja After Historic Vatican Visit for Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has concluded his diplomatic visit to Rome, returning to Abuja on Tuesday evening following his attendance at the inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican.
Presidential Welcome in Abuja
The Nigerian leader arrived at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport where he was received by prominent government officials including:
- FCT Minister Nyesom Wike
- Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume
- APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje
A Landmark Interfaith Engagement
During his historic visit to the Vatican, President Tinubu emphasized the significance of Nigeria’s representation at this global religious event. As Nigeria’s Muslim president, his participation garnered widespread commendation across religious and political spectrums.
The President engaged with Nigerian Catholic leaders, stressing the importance of national unity. “If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress,” Tinubu stated during discussions with members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
Strengthening Religious Diplomacy
The delegation included prominent Catholic figures:
- Archbishop Lucius Ugorji (CBCN President)
- Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama
- Archbishop Alfred Martins
- Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah
Archbishop Ugorji expressed gratitude for the President’s support in facilitating their attendance at both Pope Francis’s funeral and Pope Leo XIV’s installation. “You are always there for us. Now that you have come to the Vatican, whenever we have our conference in Nigeria, we will also invite you,” Ugorji remarked.
Diplomatic Implications
The visit marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria-Vatican relations and fostering interfaith dialogue within the country. Observers note this engagement could herald a new chapter in government-religious community relations in Nigeria.
For more details on President Tinubu’s message about harnessing Nigeria’s diversity, read the full report.
Full credit to the original publisher: InformationNG – Source link