The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88, describing him as a towering moral figure and a global beacon of peace, compassion, and justice.

In a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government extended its heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community, especially the millions of Nigerian Catholics, in mourning the loss of the late pontiff.

“The Holy Father was a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people,” the statement read.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the first Jesuit and first Latin American pope in 2013. His decade-long papacy was widely seen as transformative, championing the rights of the poor, displaced, and marginalised, and calling for urgent global action on climate change and interreligious harmony.

The Nigerian government noted that many of the causes championed by Pope Francis — particularly his unwavering support for the poor, refugees, and victims of conflict — deeply resonated in Nigeria, a country grappling with similar challenges.

His 2022 apology for the Catholic Church’s role in colonial-era injustices, especially toward Indigenous peoples, was specifically hailed as a “powerful gesture of reconciliation.” The government praised the Pope’s ability to confront historical wrongs while inspiring dialogue, unity, and healing.

“Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission,” the statement added.

In its tribute, the Nigerian government extended sympathies to the Vatican and the people of Argentina, calling the late Pope an “extraordinary pontiff” whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure,” the statement concluded.

World leaders have joined in mourning Pope Francis, with tributes pouring in from religious institutions, governments, and international bodies praising his commitment to global peace, inclusion, and environmental stewardship.