President Tinubu arrived in Rome to attend the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV on May 18, marking a significant global religious event
He was warmly received at Mario De Bernardo Military Airport by Nigerian and Vatican officials, highlighting diplomatic ties
The Pope personally invited Tinubu, acknowledging Nigeria’s importance, with top Nigerian clergy joining the President’s delegation.
Rome, Italy – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu landed in Rome, Italy to attend the solemn mass marking the beginning of the pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Warm reception at Mario De Bernardo Military Airport
\ Upon arrival at 6 pm local time, on Saturday evening, May 17, President Tinubu was welcomed by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, alongside officials from the Vatican City and the Nigerian Embassy.
Invitation from the Pope highlights global importance:
President Tinubu’s presence in Rome follows a personal invitation from Pope Leo XIV, conveyed through Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. The invitation emphasised the Pope’s wish for the President’s attendance “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts.”
Invitation from the Pope highlights global importance President Tinubu’s presence in Rome follows a personal invitation from Pope Leo XIV, conveyed through Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. The invitation emphasised the Pope’s wish for the President’s attendance “at this moment of particular importance for the Catholic Church and the world afflicted by many tensions and conflicts.”
