The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the funeral of Pope Francis scheduled to hold at the Vatican.
The development was confirmed in an official statement issued on Friday by the Presidency. Akpabio, a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, will represent the Federal Government at the high-profile event, which is expected to attract world leaders, heads of government, and senior clerics from across the globe.
The funeral, which promises to be one of the largest gatherings of global dignitaries in recent times, is set to draw massive crowds, with the Vatican already recording an influx of visitors paying their final respects to the late pontiff.
According to the statement, Akpabio’s selection to head the Nigerian delegation is a reflection of the strong diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the Vatican, as well as Nigeria’s deep respect for Pope Francis’ contributions to global peace, social justice, and interfaith dialogue.
It was gathered that President Tinubu deemed it important for Nigeria to be fully represented at the event, given the pivotal role the Catholic Church continues to play in promoting religious tolerance and unity in Nigeria.
Other leaders expected at the funeral include United States President Joe Biden, Morocco’s Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, and Tanzania’s Vice President Philip Mpango, among others.
Sources within the Senate disclosed that Akpabio is expected to depart the country over the weekend alongside top government officials and religious leaders who will be part of the delegation.
Recall that Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this week, was widely revered for his progressive reforms, humility, and advocacy for the poor and marginalized.
Meanwhile, preparations at the Vatican have reached top gear, with thousands of pilgrims and well-wishers already thronging the Holy City ahead of the funeral ceremony.
