A Vatican envoy has hinted that Pope Leo XIV could visit Nigeria in the coming years following a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.
The Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, Cardinal Paul Richard Gallagher, made the disclosure during commemorative engagements marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Holy See.
Speaking after the meeting, Cardinal Gallagher described the relationship between Nigeria and the Vatican as strong and cordial, noting that both sides remained committed to strengthening bilateral ties.
“The relationship is very strong and very healthy,” he said, adding that Nigeria was also set to receive a new ambassador to the Vatican.
President Tinubu, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV and said he looked forward to welcoming the pontiff to Nigeria.
“I appreciate the Pope. It was an honour for me to lead the Nigerian delegation to his inauguration as Pope Leo XIV. It was a moment of history,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that the Pope’s efforts to promote peace and dialogue across the world had been remarkable and stressed the importance of spiritual leadership in addressing global challenges.
“We need his spiritual engagement, as millions around the world look up to him. I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria,” he added.
Before his election as Pope in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV, then known as Father Robert Francis Prevost, reportedly visited Nigeria on several occasions in his previous roles within the Catholic Church. His visits took him to various cities across the country, where he engaged with Catholic communities and church leaders.
The possible visit by Pope Leo XIV is expected to further strengthen relations between Nigeria and the Vatican and would mark a significant moment for Nigeria’s Catholic faithful, who represent one of the largest Catholic populations in Africa.
The meeting between President Tinubu and Cardinal Gallagher also underscored the longstanding diplomatic and religious ties between Nigeria and the Holy See, which have continued to evolve over the past five decades.
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