Rome, Italy — President Bola Tinubu and Labour Party’s Peter Obi shared a friendly moment at the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, May 19, 2025. This encounter, nearly two years after the fierce 2023 elections, showcased a rare display of bipartisanship amidst Nigeria’s often tumultuous political landscape.
The meeting was highlighted by humor and civility. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, reported on social media that former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi facilitated the introduction. Fayemi, upon approaching Tinubu and Obi, broke the ice by saying, ‘Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.’
Tinubu, known for his quick wit, replied, ‘I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the head of the Nigerian delegation.’ His response elicited laughter from Obi, who chimed in, ‘Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.’ Both Obi and Fayemi are practicing Catholics and Papal knights.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Obi expressed on X, ‘Today’s event was particularly special, as it marked the beginning of a new papacy.’ He remined about his visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in 2013 with Fayemi during the inauguration of Pope Francis, noting the continuity of their faith journeys.
Obi shared how his repeated visits to St. Peter’s included participation in notable canonisations, such as those of Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa. ‘Through my involvement with Scholas Occurrentes, I have focused on education, peace, and intercultural dialogue,’ he added.
The encounter drew a wide range of reactions on social media, with supporters of both politicians commenting on the cordial meeting. While some congratulated the display of unity, others reignited discussions regarding the results of the 2023 election.
After the mass, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of diversity in Nigeria, emphasizing, ‘It is consistent in the true sense of unity in diversity and I am greatly honoured.’ He called for Nigerians to utilize their differences for stability and development.
Later, addressing the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, Tinubu reiterated his commitment to the nation’s progress, saying, ‘If we use our diversity not for adversity but for prosperity, the country’s hope is stability and progress.’
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, who led the bishops’ delegation, praised Tinubu for his support, saying, ‘You are always there for us. We will invite you to our conferences in Nigeria moving forward.’
Tinubu attended the inauguration in Rome alongside other global leaders, marking a significant moment as Pope Leo XIV was installed as the 267th Bishop of Rome and the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope’s message during the ceremony emphasized the need for the Church to act as a force for transformation in a world fraught with division.
