Pope Leo XIV’s Invitation to Tinubu: Ojukwu Reveals the Reason

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has explained the reason behind Pope Leo XIV’s invitation to President Bola Tinubu for a special mass in Rome marking the start of his papacy.

Speaking on NTA’s Weekend File, Ojukwu highlighted the Pope’s deep ties with Nigeria. Formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV served as Prior General of the Augustinian Order and visited Nigeria several times.

“He was in Abuja in 2016 for the Mid-Chapter Assembly of the Nigerian Augustinians,” she said, adding that he was also expected to return this July for priestly ordinations.

She noted that Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing Catholic populations globally, and the Pope has shown a strong interest in the country’s spiritual and social development.

Ojukwu praised Tinubu’s decision to attend, despite being Muslim:

“This reflects his approach to being a president for all Nigerians, regardless of creed.”

She emphasized that the visit aligns with Tinubu’s foreign policy focused on promoting peace in Africa and religious tolerance at home.

Accompanied by leading Nigerian Catholic bishops, Tinubu’s presence highlights growing cooperation between Nigeria and the Vatican, and a shared commitment to global peace and interfaith dialogue.