Pope Leo XIV Lauded by Otedola Over Rare Nigeria Visit, Shared Photo

Pope Leo XIV Lauded by Otedola Over Rare Nigeria Visit, Shared Photo

Pope Leo XIV has received heartfelt praise from Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola, who shared a rare and emotional photo of the pontiff’s 2016 visit to Nigeria. The new Pope, once known as Robert Cardinal Prevost, left an unforgettable impression when he walked among local Catholic leaders nearly a decade ago.

Now the 267th head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV’s historic election has sparked admiration from around the world. But for Otedola, who serves as the Chancellor of Augustine University in Epe, Lagos State, the news hit home in a very personal way.

To mark the occasion, Otedola took to Instagram to post a photograph of the new Pope during his time in Abuja. In the image, the then-Cardinal is seen engaging with the Augustinian community—humble, present, and deeply connected to the faithful around him.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Governing Council, and Management of Augustine University Ilara, Epe, Lagos State, I, Femi Otedola CON, Chancellor, proudly congratulate our new Pope, Leo XIV @Pontifex, a devoted Augustinian Priest from whom our University draws its name and heritage,” he wrote in a touching message.

Otedola did not simply offer congratulations—he also reminded the world of the spiritual bridge that Pope Leo built with Nigerians in 2016. “We are especially proud that His Holiness visited the Augustinian community in Abuja in 2016, where he commissioned key projects. We pray for God’s guidance as he undertakes the sacred responsibility of leading 1.5 billion Catholics around the world,” Otedola added.

That visit, which occurred on September 29, 2016, was part of the General Chapter of the Order of St. Augustine. It was the first time such an event took place on African soil, and it marked a high point in the relationship between the Vatican and Nigerian Catholics.

The image Otedola shared was more than just a memory—it was a testament to Pope Leo XIV’s dedication to his calling long before ascending to the papacy. In it, he is surrounded by clergy in black and white cassocks—some Nigerian, others from abroad. The setting was modest, but the moment was historic.

Back then, he was serving as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru. He had already made a name for himself as a calm and thoughtful leader in the Catholic world. But his presence in Nigeria during such a significant chapter for the Augustinian order showed his respect for African communities and their role in the church.

That respect didn’t go unnoticed. For local leaders, his willingness to commission projects and listen to Nigerian clergy added weight to his reputation. Though not yet a global figure, he left behind a deep sense of spiritual connection that has now returned in the form of joy and recognition.

Pope Leo XIV’s elevation to the top of the Catholic hierarchy isn’t just a win for his home country, the United States. It’s also a moment of pride for Nigeria’s Catholic community, especially those who met him in Abuja or have worked with the Augustinian order.

Augustine University itself draws direct inspiration from the same spiritual heritage Pope Leo represents. For Otedola and the university community, his papacy symbolizes a shared mission of service, education, and values-driven leadership.

His visit to Abuja was quiet but meaningful. It didn’t make global headlines at the time, but those who were there knew they had witnessed something important. Otedola’s tribute now puts that moment in the global spotlight.

The billionaire philanthropist has long been known for combining faith and philanthropy. His leadership at Augustine University reflects his belief in education that shapes both minds and morals. In Pope Leo, he sees a spiritual leader who embodies those same ideals.

The papacy is no small task. With 1.5 billion followers across the world, the Catholic Church plays a key role in shaping global ethics, policy, and culture. As Pope Leo XIV takes on this immense responsibility, messages like Otedola’s reflect the hope and prayers of people who believe in his vision.

That vision includes unity, compassion, and growth for communities that often feel overlooked. His past actions—including his 2016 visit to Nigeria—suggest that he won’t forget the developing world as he leads the global Church.

For Nigerian Catholics, especially those tied to the Augustinian tradition, the new Pope is more than just a figurehead. He is a man who once stood with them, walked their streets, and respected their faith.

The post from Otedola may be short, but its meaning runs deep. It celebrates a connection that spans continents, languages, and generations. It’s a reminder that even the highest seats of power in the Church are built on moments of humility and shared experience.

Now that the world knows Pope Leo XIV, it’s worth remembering that part of his journey passed through Nigeria. And thanks to Otedola’s public tribute, that part of the story is receiving the honor it deserves.

From that single photograph and message, a new chapter of global Catholic unity has begun. And for those in Nigeria who once welcomed him with open arms, this papacy is a personal joy—a connection made real through faith, memory, and the unbreakable ties of community.