Senate President Godswill Akpabio Leads Nigerian Delegation to Pope Francis’ Funeral. By Raymond Enoch
In a solemn display of international solidarity, Senate President Godswill Akpabio will lead Nigerian delegation to Vatican City to attend the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025. The delegation aims to convey Nigeria’s heartfelt condolences to the Holy See following the pontiff’s passing on April 21 at the age of 88.
News Central
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation will present a letter of condolence from President Bola Tinubu to the Acting Head of the Vatican, expressing Nigeria’s sympathy over the passing of Pope Francis.
The delegation comprises of Senate President Godswill Akpabio – Head of the delegationAmbassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs others are Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji – President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria
Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah – Archbishop of the Sokoto Diocese
Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama – Archbishop of the Abuja Diocese
The delegation is expected to attend the funeral Mass at St. Peter’s Square, which is anticipated to draw over 200,000 mourners, including numerous world leaders and dignitaries. The funeral will be presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, and will follow the traditional rites for a deceased pope. The final commendation and farewell will be conducted after the Eucharistic celebration.
Pope Francis, remembered for his humility, commitment to social justice, and advocacy for the marginalized, will be buried at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, marking the first time in over a century that a pope will be interred outside the Vatican.
The Nigerian delegation’s participation underscores the nation’s respect for the late pontiff and its commitment to fostering international relations with the Holy city.
