In an official statement released by the Society on Friday , its National President, Prince Mosediq Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, described the election of Pope Leo XIV — the first Pope from the Americas — as a significant milestone that underscores the continuity of apostolic leadership and the resilience of the global Catholic Church.
He lauded the Catholic faithful in Nigeria for their steadfast prayers and devotion throughout the sacred process leading to the conclave. It expressed hope that the new pontiff’s tenure would usher in a renewed era of peace, justice, and service to humanity.
In a show of interfaith solidarity, the National President invoked a verse from the Holy Qur’an (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:82) highlighting the closeness between Muslims and Christians and the affection shared between the two faiths.
He emphasized the importance of continued peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among religious communities in Nigeria.
“As the Catholic community in Nigeria joins the universal Church in welcoming the new Pontiff, we pray that his papacy will be blessed with wisdom, humility, and a deep dedication to the mission of peace, justice, and service to all humanity.
“May his leadership inspire renewed hope, strengthen faith, and advance the work of the Gospel both in Nigeria and across the world.
"In the spirit of interfaith harmony, we invoke the words of the Qur’an: "… And you will find the nearest of them in affection to the believers are those who say, ‘We are Christians.’ That is because among them are priests and monks, and because they are not arrogant.”
“(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:82)May Almighty Allah continue to bless the Catholic Church in Nigeria, strengthen the bonds of peace between our communities, and grant abundant grace to Pope Leo XIV as he leads the flock of Christ with compassion and justice.”
