Akpabio Leads Nigerian Delegation to Pope Francis’ Funeral in Vatican
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and members of Nigeria’s official delegation arrived in Vatican City ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis scheduled for today.
Akpabio heads the five-member team appointed by President Bola Tinubu to represent Nigeria at the burial rites of the late pontiff. On Friday, the Senate President visited St Peter’s Basilica for the lying-in-state and paid tribute on behalf of President Tinubu and the Nigerian people. He shared photos and a message via Facebook, expressing Nigeria’s deep respect for the late Pope.
The delegation includes Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji; Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Ignatius Kaigama; and Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah.
Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirms that the delegation will present a formal condolence letter to the Acting Head of the Vatican.
President Tinubu earlier joined global leaders in mourning Pope Francis, describing him as “a humble servant of God, a tireless champion of the p++r, and a guiding light for millions.” He notes the Pope’s passing, just after Easter, as “a sacred return to his Maker at a time of renewed hope.”
Pope Francis d+ed on Monday, April 21, 2025, at age 88, following a stroke that led to coma and cardiac coll+pse. The Vatican confirms he passed peacefully at his Santa Marta residence. His d+ath certificate cites additional health issues including hypertension, multiple bronchiectasis, and Type 2 diabetes.
The Pope had recently been discharged from hospital after battling double pneumonia.
: @channelstelevision
