By Charles Igwe
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, exchanged warm pleasantries on Sunday during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, Rome.
Also present was former Ekiti State Governor and ex-Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who played a key role in facilitating the encounter between the two political figures. According to Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Fayemi spotted President Tinubu seated with other dignitaries and approached him, bringing Obi along to greet the Nigerian leader.
Breaking the ice with a touch of humour, Fayemi reportedly said, “Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.” President Tinubu, in a witty reply, responded, “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the Head of the Nigerian Delegation.” The light-hearted moment drew laughter from Obi, who responded, “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
Both Obi and Fayemi are devout Catholics and Papal Knights — a title conferred by the Vatican in recognition of their service to the Church.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Obi confirmed the interaction and reflected more deeply on the significance of the occasion. “Today, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi and I stood once again beneath the majestic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, evoking memories of our presence here as governors in 2013 for the inauguration of Pope Francis,” he wrote.
Obi recounted his repeated visits to the Vatican over the years, including as part of Nigeria’s official delegation to the canonisations of Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa. He also mentioned his involvement with Scholas Occurrentes, a global initiative launched by Pope Francis that promotes education, intercultural dialogue, and peace.
“Today’s event was particularly special,” Obi added, “as it marked the beginning of a new papacy. I exchanged warm greetings with President Bola Tinubu and was pleased to see the diverse gathering of world leaders and pilgrims who came in faith and unity.”
What resonated most with Obi was Pope Leo XIV’s homily, which he described as “profoundly moving,” especially the Pope’s appeal for collective compassion. “His heartfelt call for us to journey together towards God by embracing the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten stood out,” Obi wrote.
He concluded by noting that he offered prayers for Nigeria and renewed his commitment to advancing bold investment in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
