Senator Azuta Mbata urges new pontiff to promote unity, compassion, and interfaith dialogue
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has extended warm congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV—on his emergence as the 267th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and successor to Pope Francis.
Senator Azuta Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, in a statement signed by Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, described the Pope’s election on May 8, 2025, at the Vatican City, Rome, as a momentous occasion not just for the global Catholic community, but for all people of faith around the world.
Igbo Catholic Community Celebrates with the Vatican
Ohanaeze conveyed the goodwill of the Igbo Catholic community around the world and, by extension, the entire Igbo nation to the new pontiff. Prior to his election, Pope Leo XIV served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in the Roman Curia.
Senator Mbata expressed confidence in the leadership of Pope Leo XIV, noting that his papacy comes at a time when the world needs a renewed focus on compassion, unity, faith, solidarity, and inclusivity.
A Call for Global Unity and Dialogue
The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed hope that the Pope’s leadership would continue to reflect the wisdom, strength, and moral courage that define the papal office.
“The wisdom, strength, and moral latitude which the pontificate as an institution under Pope Leo XIV represents shall continue to enhance bridge-building, strengthen ties between institutions and nations, and inspire peoples of the world to unity and brotherhood,” Mbata said.
In light of the world’s multi-religious, multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-lingual diversity, Ohanaeze urged Pope Leo XIV to use his spiritual authority to promote inclusivity, care for the needy, peace, environmental sustainability, and interfaith dialogue—values that marked the papacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Igbo Nation Offers Spiritual Support
Senator Mbata reassured the Pope of the prayers and spiritual support of the Igbo people.
“The Igbo nation will continue to pray for the new Pope,” he said. “It is also our desire that God may grant him grace and mercies for the care of the Church and the general good of mankind.”
