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| Obi and Fayemi at St. Peter’s Square |
Today, May 18, 2025, Peter Obi and Dr. John Kayode Fayemi stood together once again beneath the iconic dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV.
This poignant moment echoed their shared experience in 2013, when they attended the inauguration of Pope Francis as governors, marking a significant chapter for both the Catholic Church and the global community.
Over the years, Obi has frequently returned to the Vatican, including as part of Nigeria’s official delegation for the canonisations of Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa.
His ongoing commitment to faith and global unity is further reflected in his active role with Scholas Occurrentes, a worldwide initiative founded by Pope Francis that champions education, peace, and intercultural dialogue.
This reunion at the Vatican not only highlights their enduring friendship but also underscores their shared dedication to faith-driven leadership and international cooperation.
Writing on his X former Twitter handle, Obi said: “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 - a deeply significant moment for the Church and the world.
“Over the years, I have returned to this sacred place on several occasions, including as part of Nigeria’s official delegation to the canonisations of Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa.
“Through my involvement with Scholas Occurrentes, the global initiative founded by Pope Francis, I have also participated in various efforts promoting education, peace, and intercultural dialogue.
Today’s event was particularly special, 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 stood out most was the Holy Father’s profoundly moving homily - especially his heartfelt appeal for us to journey together towards God by embracing the poor, the suffering, and the forgotten. He spoke with a clarity that pierced the heart: that the true measure of our love for God lies not in grand declarations, but in the quiet, persistent acts of compassion that uplift the vulnerable and restore dignity to the marginalised.
“May this clarion call to confront poverty be embraced by our leaders. For my part, I offered ernest prayers to God for our nation and also renewed my commitment to championing bold and sustained investment in the critical sectors - especially education, healthcare delivery and pulling people out of poverty - believing that a well-educated population is the foundation upon which a just, inclusive, and prosperous nation must be built.
“A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO”
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