By Seyi Odewale and Cross Udo, with agency reports
In a historic and widely celebrated moment, Catholics worldwide are embracing a new chapter in the life of the Church as Cardinal Robert Prevost has been elected Pope, taking the name Leo XIV.
The election, concluded after a brief conclave, signals a shift toward pastoral outreach and reform-minded leadership.
Cardinal Prevost, an American-born prelate with extensive missionary experience in Latin America, is known for his commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and synodal dialogue, making his papacy one that many believe will address internal Church matters and global humanitarian concerns with renewed vigour.
Pope Leo XIV’s election comes at a time when the Catholic Church faces mounting challenges, including declining Mass attendance in parts of the world, sexual abuse scandals, and the need for greater inclusion of marginalised groups.
His previous roles, including as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and his advocacy for indigenous rights, have equipped him with insight into Church leadership’s administrative and pastoral dimensions.
Analysts suggest that his experience working with diverse communities could help the Vatican take a more global and empathetic approach to its engagement with the faithful.
The new Pontiff’s initial address has already struck a hopeful and inclusive tone. Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV called for unity, compassion, and a Church that walks with all people, especially the poor and forgotten.
He referenced the legacy of his namesake, Leo XIII, known for his ground-breaking social encyclical Rerum Novarum, indicating a likely focus on workers’ rights, economic equity, and ethical governance in the modern world.
The message resonated with Catholics in developed and developing nations, who view his election as a sign of a more responsive and modern Church.
*Leo XIV becomes first American to head Catholic Church
With Cardinal Robert Prevost’s election as the new pope, he became the first United States of America Pontiff in history. He is from Chicago and has taken the name Pope Leo XIV.
The 69-year-old made his first address yesterday amidst a cheering crowd at the Vatican City, Italy.
*Trump: It’s great honour for US
World leaders welcomed the election of Robert Francis Prevost, who took the papal name Leo XIV, as the next Leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.
US President, Donald Trump, said, “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is an honour to realise he is the first American Pope.
“What excitement, and what a Great Honour for our country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a significant moment!”
*Tinubu, world leaders hail new Pope
President Bola Tinubu has offered his warmest congratulations to His Holiness Leo XIV on his election as the Bishop of Rome and the new Leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Tinubu, in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, rejoiced with the leadership and congregants of the Catholic Church in Nigeria on the historic election of the new Pontiff, whose message of faith and hope already resonates across the globe. He reaffirmed the scriptures of a more peaceful world.
The President affirmed the valued relations shared between Nigeria and the Holy See over many years while acknowledging the rewarding partnership with the Catholic Church in peacebuilding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and, more recently, the promotion of technology in advancing human capacity.
According to the statement, “President Tinubu believes the election of Pope Leo XIV opens a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church and the values of love, humanity and charity, particularly to the underprivileged that it has consistently projected.
“President Tinubu prays that the Almighty God will continuously shed his light of glory over the new leader of the Catholic Church and grant him good health and wisdom so that he can reach the world with the message of peace and love.”
*Columbia
Similarly, Colombian President Gustavo Petro said, “I hope he becomes a great leader for migrant peoples around the world, and I hope he encourages our Latin American migrant brothers and sisters, humiliated today in the United States. It’s time for them to organise.”
*Israel
“We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and worldwide. May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples,” said Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
*Russia
“I am confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop based on the Christian values that unite us,” said Russian President Vladimir Putin.
*Germany
“Through your role, you provide hope and guidance to millions of believers worldwide in these challenging times,” said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
*Spain
“May his pontificate contribute to strengthening dialogue and the defence of human rights in a world that needs hope and unity,” said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
*Poland
“Please accept the assurance of the readiness of the Republic of Poland to strengthen these unique bonds further — in the name of shared values, responsibility for the common good and the strengthening of peace in the world,” said Polish President Andrzej Duda, a conservative Catholic.
*European Union
“We wish that his pontificate be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue,” said European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.
