President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti State, during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV held on Sunday in Vatican City, Rome.
The high-profile meeting occurred as the three Nigerian politicians attended the inaugural Mass marking the beginning of the new papacy.
According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Dr. Fayemi noticed President Tinubu seated among other world leaders and encouraged Peter Obi to join him in greeting the Nigerian leader. Obi reportedly agreed without hesitation.
Breaking the ice upon approaching the President, Fayemi said:
“Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
President Tinubu responded with a lighthearted remark:
“I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.”
The comment sparked laughter among the group, with Peter Obi agreeing, saying:
“Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
Both Obi and Fayemi are devout Catholics and hold Papal knighthoods.
Tinubu Meets Pope Leo XIV
Earlier at the ceremony, President Tinubu had a brief moment with Pope Leo XIV, the newly installed Bishop of Rome and leader of the global Catholic Church. The president shook hands and exchanged brief words with the pontiff during the reception at St. Peter’s Square.
Tinubu joined several world leaders, including U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who were present for the solemn occasion.
https://x.com/irnewsregion/status/1924064579648151900
In his homily, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Church’s role as a moral force for unity, urging an end to the exploitation of the environment and marginalization of the poor. He called for the Church to lead efforts in healing global divisions and fostering peace.
Photos from the encounter are shown below.
https://x.com/aonanuga1956/status/1924152209962406198?
https://x.com/aonanuga1956/status/1924152209962406198?
