The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Christian community in the 19 northern states and Abuja are united in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 following a prolonged battle with double pneumonia citeturn0news12.
Rev. John Hayab, CAN Chairman for Northern Nigeria, expressed deep sorrow, describing the Pope as a symbol of hope, peace, and compassion in an increasingly divided world. He highlighted Pope Francis’s efforts to promote interfaith harmony and his advocacy for the marginalized, the environment, and social justice citeturn0news12.
The Roman Catholic Church has played a significant role in the spiritual and social life of many communities in Nigeria. Pope Francis’s influence extended deeply into local parishes, missions, and schools, touching countless lives through his encouragement of service, dialogue, and faith in action citeturn0news12.
In his statement, Rev. Hayab emphasized that this moment of mourning is also an opportunity for reflection and celebration of Pope Francis’s tireless efforts to foster unity among Christian denominations and different faiths.
President Bola Tinubu also expressed condolences, praising the late Pope for challenging the powerful to act with justice, calling nations to welcome the stranger, and reminding humanity to protect the Earth for future generations citeturn0search0.
As the world mourns, the legacy of Pope Francis continues to inspire Christians globally, including those in Nigeria, to live out the values of compassion, justice, and unity.