The passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit Pontiff, at the age of 88, marks the end of a twelve-year papacy that was defined by simplicity, mercy, and hope.
— Dr Bukola Saraki
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
As the global Catholic community grapples with the loss of its spiritual leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, President of the 8th Nigerian Senate and former two-term Governor of Kwara State, has extended his condolences following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
The late Pontiff, who died at the age of 88, was the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, and his 12-year papacy will be remembered for its emphasis on simplicity, humility, and mercy.
In a heartfelt message, Dr. Saraki reflected on the significance of Pope Francis’ spiritual leadership:
“The passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit Pontiff, at the age of 88, marks the end of a twelve-year papacy that was defined by simplicity, mercy, and hope.
As the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning, so soon after the Easter celebration, it is my hope that his successor will build upon the enduring legacy he leaves behind — one rooted in compassion, religious tolerance, dialogue, and a profound care for all humanity.
Toyin and I extend our heartfelt condolences to the faithful of the Catholic Church and to all people of goodwill who mourn this great spiritual shepherd.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, made history in 2013 when he became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church — the first from the Americas, the Southern Hemisphere, and the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy.
Known for his deep commitment to social justice, climate action, and reform within the Church, Pope Francis championed the cause of the marginalized and often spoke out against inequality and consumerism. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ in 2015 called for urgent global action on environmental stewardship, marking a significant intervention by the Church in global climate discourse.
He was also a staunch advocate for interfaith dialogue, building bridges with leaders of Islam, Judaism, and other world religions. Notably, his historic visit to Iraq in 2021 and his joint declaration on Human Fraternity with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar in 2019 further cemented his role as a global voice for peace and understanding.
Pope Francis undertook major efforts to reform the Roman Curia, address sexual abuse scandals within the Church, and promote inclusivity, particularly toward LGBTQ+ Catholics and divorced individuals. Though often met with resistance from traditionalist factions within the Church, his pastoral approach and open-hearted philosophy earned him widespread admiration.
With his death, the Catholic Church enters a period of mourning and reflection. The conclave to elect his successor will soon be convened in Vatican City, as the world looks on to see who will step into the shoes of one of the most transformative popes of the modern era.
Dr. Saraki’s tribute echoes the sentiments of many around the globe — a recognition of a life lived in the service of faith, humanity, and hope.
