President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday joined other world leaders in Rome, Italy, for the historic installation mass of the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.
During the ceremonial event held at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, President Tinubu had a brief but symbolic handshake and conversation with the newly installed pontiff, who hails from the United States. The exchange occurred shortly after the mass as Pope Leo XIV greeted attending dignitaries.
Also in attendance were prominent global leaders including U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, both of whom also greeted the new Pope.
In his first homily as the 268th Bishop of Rome, Pope Leo XIV laid out the vision for his papacy, making a passionate plea for an end to environmental exploitation and social marginalization. He emphasized the Church’s responsibility to act as a force for transformation in a world beset by division, inequality, and hatred.
“The Church must lead not only with faith, but with compassion — standing with the poor, healing division, and protecting our shared home,” the Pope said, drawing applause from a global audience.
President Tinubu’s presence at the mass underscored Nigeria’s continued engagement with the Vatican and its support for interfaith dialogue and global peace.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis and is the first American to be elected Pope, marking a significant moment in Church history.
