In a heartfelt message brimming with joy and admiration, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has congratulated Catholics in Anambra, Nigeria, and around the world on the election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV.
The newly elected Pope, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church as the first American to ascend to the Papacy. Governor Soludo, in a press statement issued by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, described the Pope’s elevation as “significant and spiritually uplifting.”
Expressing delight over the development, Governor Soludo said, “I am filled with immense joy at the news of the ascension of Cardinal Robert Prevost to the Chair of Saint Peter.”
Highlighting the Pope’s multicultural roots and global service, the Governor noted, “As the first American Pope, with rich French and Italian heritage, and a deep connection to the vibrant Catholic community in Peru, Pope Leo XIV embodies the universal spirit of the Catholic Church.”
He commended the Holy Father’s remarkable track record, particularly his missionary and pastoral engagements in Peru where he served as a parish pastor, seminary rector, and canon law teacher. According to the Governor, these roles reflect “his dedication, spiritual depth, and untiring commitment to the service of God and humanity.”
Soludo further praised Pope Leo XIV’s academic and administrative credentials, remarking, “His distinguished intellectual prowess, shown in degrees in Mathematics and Canon Law, coupled with his extensive leadership experience within the Order of St. Augustine, lay a strong foundation for his Petrine ministry.”
The Governor added that the Pope’s time as Provincial of the Augustinian Province of Chicago clearly demonstrates “his proven leadership capabilities and understanding of the diverse needs of the global Catholic family.”
Concluding his message, Governor Soludo offered his prayers and best wishes, stating, “I congratulate the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and all Catholics in Anambra State, Nigeria, and the world, with prayers that the new Pope will lead with wisdom and discernment of the Holy Spirit as he navigates the complexities of our modern world, fostering dialogue, promoting peace, and upholding the sanctity of human life.”
The goodwill message was issued on May 8, 2025, and signed by Christian Aburime, Press Secretary to the Governor.
