President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shared a lighthearted moment with Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi, during the installation mass of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican City on Sunday.
The three prominent Nigerian politicians ran into each other at the solemn ceremony, which drew world leaders, dignitaries, and Papal knights from around the globe.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Fayemi first spotted President Tinubu seated among other global leaders and nudged Obi to join him in greeting the Nigerian President.
Obi, a devout Catholic and Papal knight like Fayemi, agreed and followed.
As they approached Tinubu, Fayemi broke the ice, saying: “Mr. President, welcome to our church, and thank you for honouring the Pope with your presence.”
In a humorous response, Tinubu replied: “I should be the one welcoming you and Peter. I’m the head of the Nigerian Delegation.”
The comment drew laughter from all three, with Obi responding, “Yes, indeed. We are members of your delegation.”
President Tinubu meets with Peter Obi, Fayemi at the Vatican
President Bola Tinubu, Mr Peter Obi, the Labour Party Presidential candidate, and former Ekiti governor Kayode Fayemi met at Pope Leo XIV’s installation mass on Sunday in Rome.
Fayemi sighted President Tinubu, where… pic.twitter.com/fTRachdSHP
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) May 18, 2025
Tinubu’s presence at the Vatican was part of his official visit to witness the installation of Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church following the passing of Pope Francis.
