Nigeria House of Representatives Mourns Pope Francis, Hails His Global Legacy of Peace and Justice
April 22 2025
The House of Representatives of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, describing him as a global moral authority and champion of peace.
The revered Pontiff died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, drawing to a close a 12-year papacy marked by humility, justice, and an unwavering commitment to the dignity of all people. The House, in an official statement released through its spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., joined millions around the world in mourning the loss of a figure it called “a towering symbol of faith and unity.”
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON, paid tribute to Pope Francis as “an extraordinary leader, unifier, and a peacemaker, who used his God-given gift of leadership to inspire faith, hope and love.” He noted the Pope’s consistent advocacy for the marginalized and his call for global peace—even in his final public appearance during Easter Mass.
“From war-torn regions to forgotten corners of the world, Pope Francis never ceased to raise his voice for justice, mercy, and reconciliation,” the Speaker said.
On behalf of the diverse peoples of Nigeria, the House extended condolences to the global Catholic community, the Holy See, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, and all Nigerians of the Catholic faith. The statement also recognized the broader Christian community and all people of goodwill who feel the weight of this loss.
In a strong message of solidarity, the House joined the international community in mourning and reflection, praying for the peaceful repose of Pope Francis and divine guidance for the Roman Catholic Church as it prepares to elect a new leader.
Signed:
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.
Spokesman, Nigeria House of Representatives
