The statement said Buhari believes that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI would be remembered as a true servant of God who used the benevolent gifts of the Almighty upon his life to serve the Church and humanity in humility.
By Jeffrey Agbo
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his condolences to Pope Francis, the Catholic Church and all Christian faithful on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
Benedict XVI died on Saturday, aged 95, almost a decade after he stood down because of ailing health.
The late Pontiff spent his final years at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery within the walls of the Vatican.
Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, in a statement, conveyed the president’s condolences.
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The statement read, “On behalf of Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with Pope Francis, the Catholic Church in Nigeria and around the world, as well as all Christian faithful who mourn the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
“The President pays tribute to Benedict XVI who was greatly admired globally for his selfless leadership, renowned learning as a theologian, and dedication to advance inter-faith dialogue and peace.
“President Buhari believes that the late Pontiff will be remembered as a true servant of God who used the benevolent gifts of the Almighty upon his life to serve the Church and humanity in humility, reverence and piety, living in word and deed the virtues of a true Christian disciple.
“The President prays that the Pope Emeritus receives eternal embrace in the loving arms of the Lord, whom he served faithfully throughout his vocation.”
