President Bola Tinubu has expressed his desire to host Pope Leo XIV in Nigeria, describing the pontiff’s global peace efforts as important at a time of growing security and humanitarian challenges.
Tinubu made the remarks on Saturday while receiving Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, at his residence in Abuja.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Gallagher was accompanied by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu.
The president said his administration remains committed to promoting religious harmony, tolerance and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria’s diverse faith communities. He added that dialogue among religious leaders remains central to addressing the country's security challenges.
Tinubu recalled leading Nigeria’s delegation to the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, describing the event as a significant moment. He said he hopes the Pope will visit Nigeria.
"I appreciate the Pope. It was an honour for me to lead the Nigerian delegation to his inauguration. We need his spiritual engagement, as millions around the world look up to him. I look forward to receiving him in Nigeria," the president said.
Tinubu also spoke about his longstanding relationship with the Catholic Church, dating back to his time as governor of Lagos State. He noted that the Church has made significant contributions to education and healthcare, adding that this informed his decision to return mission schools to their original religious owners after years of government control.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting freedom of worship and urged religious leaders to continue promoting peace and tolerance.
The president also referenced his family's religious background, noting that his wife serves as a pastor in an evangelical church, saying it reflects the importance of religious coexistence in the country.
Gallagher said his visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Holy See. He described Nigeria as a key partner because of its large Catholic population and acknowledged the country's importance to the Vatican.
The Vatican envoy conveyed Pope Leo XIV’s appreciation to Tinubu for attending his inauguration and commended the Nigerian government’s efforts to improve security and maintain peace.
He also thanked the government for facilitating visas for Catholic bishops and supporting the Church’s activities in Nigeria.
Gallagher said he expects Nigeria’s ambassador to the Holy See to assume duties in the coming weeks and expressed optimism that diplomatic engagement between both sides would continue to deepen.
The Vatican delegation included Archbishop Michael F. Crotty, Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria; Monsignor Suman Paul Anthony, an official of the Secretariat of State; and Monsignor Patarne Koyassambia-Kozondo, First Secretary of the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria.
