President Bola Tinubu has extended warmest congratulations to His Holiness Leo XIV on his election as the 267th Bishop of Rome and the new spiritual leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

In a statement on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu celebrated the emergence of American-born Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the newly elected Pontiff, hailing the decision of the Conclave as a defining moment for the global Catholic community.

The President felicitates the Conclave for electing the American Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome.

President Tinubu rejoices with the leadership and congregants of the Catholic Church in Nigeria on the historic election of the new Pontiff whose message of faith and hope already resonates across the globe.

Describing Pope Leo XIV’s ascension as a beacon of reassurance drawn from scripture, President Tinubu expressed confidence that the new Pope would inspire a more peaceful and united world.

The President also took the opportunity to reflect on the long-standing and fruitful relationship between Nigeria and the Holy See, highlighting the Catholic Church’s vital role in peacebuilding, education, healthcare delivery, infrastructure development, and, in recent times, the promotion of technology as a tool for human advancement.

Tinubu noted that the election of Pope Leo XIV “opens a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church and the values of love, humanity and charity, particularly to the underprivileged, that it has consistently projected.”

He concluded his message with a prayer for the new Pope, asking the Almighty to endow him with strength, wisdom, and divine guidance in his mission to spread peace and love across the world.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres congratulated Robert Prevost, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, on being chosen as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

In a statement on Thursday, Guterres extended his heartfelt congratulations Catholics worldwide, highlighting the profound spiritual significance of the Pope’s election during a time of global challenges.

Guterres stressed the world’s need for strong voices in support of peace, social justice, human dignity, and compassion.

Similarly, U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as the first American-born Pope, calling it a great honour for the country.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said they look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he is confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these challenging times.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said may his pontificate contribute to strengthening dialogue and the defence of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity.

Polish President Andrzej Duda, a conservative Catholic said please accept the assurance of the readiness of the Republic of Poland to further strengthen the unique bonds in the name of shared values, responsibility for the common good and the strengthening of peace in the world.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen wished that his pontificate be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue.