I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the revered head of the Catholic Church, His Holiness, Pope Francis, who passed at the age of 88.

A great shepherd of the weak and downtrodden, Pope Francis was a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a tireless advocate for peace, compassion, and human dignity.

Throughout his long and distinguished papacy, he spoke courageously for the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed, always reminding us that true leadership lies in service to others.

An advocate of love and social justice, he walked the path of peace in a world so often divided by conflict, and his unshakable faith in the power of dialogue and reconciliation made him a defining moral compass for our time.

He will be remembered for his forthrightness, devotion, legacy of love, humility and hope, and a relentless commitment to global peace. He will be sorely missed.

I offer heartfelt condolences to Catholic faithful in Edo State, Nigeria and across the world and urge all and sundry to learn from the selfless and exemplary life of sacrifice of this great global leader. May God grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki, Governor, Edo State, (2016-2024)